Clash Of The Titans 030619

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CLASH OF THE TITANS

SIMONE SMITH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

It is not a coincidence that Saturday, March 2nd, 2019, was declared Titans of Reggae Day; it was also the day that hundreds of reggae fans from across the GTA filled the Opera House in downtown Toronto, to celebrate the journey of one of the most popular genres of music in the world; Reggae. Rooted in the Eglinton West neighborhood, the Toronto reggae scene blossomed in the 1970s after a wave of Jamaican immigrants made their home here in Toronto, Ontario,

Canada. Saturday night was a commemoration of great artists, representing the past, present, and future of reggae.

Titans of Reggae was an incredibly orchestrated event put on by Andrew Craig, Founder and Artistic Director of Culchahworks. Andrew Craig is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, producer, director, composer, and broadcaster who has had the great fortune to work in multiple musical genres

and has collaborated with artists in a cornucopia of disciplines. His collaborations include working with artists Molly Johnson and Wynton Marsalis, and his considerable reputation as a Musical Director ties him to productions including Harbourfront’s tribute to Quincy Jones, two performances for Nelson Mandela at the Rogers Centre, and music compositions for OMNI Television.

Continued On Page 5

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Andria Thompson Queen with an Eternal Crown

When you think of a queen, the adjectives that come to mind include: regal, majestic, stately, dignified and royal. It just so happens that when describing the woman we know as Andria Thompson, these same adjectives apply. Andrea Thompson is a woman who is passionate about life, loves people and enjoys being the mother of two beautiful daughters and a handsome young King. You would never know by looking at her, that she has experienced a great deal of pain; pain that she has used as a foundation for her ever brightening future.

Andria has a past that is all too familiar to young black women living here in Canada.

She was raised in a single parent home, and at an early age dealt with feelings of low self worth,

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and low self esteem. Her feelings of low self worth not only stemmed from being a dark skinned woman, but also from being sexually assaulted on multiple occasions. This resulted in a very turbulent adolescence and early adulthood for Andria, where she had to deal with the stigma of being a promiscuous adolescent, as well as a teenage mother. At a very sensitive time in her sexual development, she began to see men in a different light, which severely affected how she viewed relationships and her role in them. Her turbulent lifestyle continued up until the death of her mother. It was at this time she was forced to reflect on her life; she knew that she was not happy, and if she truly wanted happiness in her life, she was responsible for it. She realized that she was responsible for loving and respecting her self, and this awareness put her in direct alignment with her purpose.

“All things are passed away, and all things have become new!”

(II Corinthians 5:17) The beauty of taking responsibility for your life is that you are no longer the victim. It was this message that became crystal clear to Andria, and she was determined to share this message with other women who have felt victimized in their lives. In 2011, Andria became an image and beauty consultant at UR Woman, an organization designed and created to help build women from the inside out.

Here, she was able to help women identify their God given purpose in life, and connect to resources that highlighted their skills and talents. UR Woman fit in well with her position as an Ordained Elder at Rhema Christian Ministries, where she provides academic training that equips students with the tools needed to become well rounded, informed, active and engaged global citizens.

Anyone who has undergone the process of change knows that it can be difficult. Individuals need certain adaptive mechanisms in order to get through the change successfully; Andria’s adaptive mechanism is her ability to share her story on paper. Andria was given this opportunity when she was asked to be included in a brilliant anthology “Confessions of a Single Mother.” This book is the brainchild of Ms. Farrah Hodgson; her objective was to have a group of woman share testimonies of their struggles as single mothers. Andria was able to share

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stories about the trials and tribulations she faced on her day-to-day journey with her three children. This was impactful because she knew that the readers would be able to learn from her journey, and utilize some of the coping mechanisms that had worked well for her to overcome hardships.

Confessions of a Single Mother, only fuelled the already motivated Andria, and she soon began her own anthology “Designers Original, A Woman’s Guide to Understanding her Self-Worth and Identity in God.” This time Andria was able to co-author with some beautiful black Queens from Canada on their experiences of walking in their true identified purpose. Some of the co-authors include: Black Canadian Queen Brampton, Kimberlee Shelley – Ajibolade, Blondelle Brown, Supermodel Canada, Nini Amerlise, and Nellisa Noel.

“I am more than what people see. I am more than the colour of my skin.”

It is fair to say that this young, vibrant and extraordinarily beautiful soul has really begun to establish her legacy. Close to the end of 2016, Andria rose to the occasion once again and took on the role of Global Coordinator for the Black Women’s Empowerment Program, which is an initiative coordinated by the Diversity Advancement Network and is designed to build confidence in young women. Andria has embraced her role as the Global Coordinator, and taken on the task of selecting and showcasing future women leaders who are making an impact in the community. The programs ambition is to highlight black women in positions of power. It is to help them understand that in order to be a Queen you must hold your head high, regardless of what you have been through, or the mistakes that you have made. The final chosen ambassadors are honoured at the Black Women Honors & Empowerment, as well as the Black Women Awards. Each year, a few women ambassadors are chosen to represent cities and regions of Ontario.

Her success has brought challenges; there are those who at times want to remind Andria about her difficult past, and like the Queen she is, Andria holds her head high and stands firm in her faith. She wants to remind young women that they are original, they must know their worth, and that no one can take the place of you.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

PAGE 3

The Journey to Freedom; A Trip to Amherstburg Freedom Museum SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER Many of us are unaware of the rich African history that can be found in Essex County, which is located in South-Western Ontario. It is not by any fault of ours, it is because to be honest, it is not taught to us in school. Most of the African history that we hear comes from our neighbouring country America, and as significant as that history is, Canadians of African descent have played important roles in the cultural, political, social, and economic progress of our communities right here in Ontario. By the 18th century, black loyalists, and other enslaved Africans had begun to settle in Essex County. By the 19th century, formerly enslaved African Americans had saturated the area, most fleeing either bondage or oppression; in more modern times, immigrants from the continent of Africa and the Caribbean made this region their new home.

One particular city in Essex County carries a history that remains unknown to Canadians; this city is called Amherstburg, and it is located about three hours outside of Toronto, Ontario. Amherstburg played a paramount role in the Underground Railroad; it is located by the narrowest part of the river, which made it one

of the easiest points of entry for runaway slaves.

Another key aspect about this area is the fact that there are many islands located between Detroit and Amherstburg, which gave African slaves hiding places during their daring escapes.

There are many historical sites in Amherstburg, but one site has managed to accumulate all of the histories of the region into one place; let’s take a quick journey through Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

Over 30,000 people came through the Underground Railroad to Canada, and the Amherstburg Freedom Museum was a chief entry point into Canada for those escaping slavery.

When driving through the city, and up to the museum, there is an energy that is indescribable. The museum tells the story of AfricanCanadians journey and contributions. Amherstburg resident Melvin “Mac” Simpson founded the museum and his belief was that social, economic and educational issues would be better addressed by a society who had greater knowledge and pride in their own history. Contrary to popular belief, there was a lot of racism and segregation in Canada, and many don’t realize that slavery was a reality for many African-Canadians during the 18th century; Mr. Simpson saw the importance of doing something tangible to increase black awareness, and to help future generations understand that life was not easy for runaway slaves, but many lived through it with dignity, strength, and purpose. He realized that creating this space would help preserve the many stories that would otherwise go untold and passing artifacts down for future generations would assist in education and inspiration.

Amherstburg First Baptist Church

is the Mother Church of Amherstburg, and it played a crucial role in the development of black communities and their identity in Ontario.

The church assisted in founding organizations where people of African descent could pursue their ambitions, develop their talents, and assume positions of leadership at a time when many Africans were denied these opportunities elsewhere. The church is set on a small, flat lot and features a gable roof, pointed arch windows, and gabled vestibule. Built in 1848, the church offered a fitting spiritual home for thousands of black Baptists and it was important in the everyday lives of congregants to help establish distinctive black Baptist traditions here in Ontario.

In 1966, the pastor, Mr. Simpson and members of the church – which is now called the Nazrey African Methodist Episcopal Church – raised money to build a museum hall that attached to the church. The museum became incorporated in 1975 and funding from municipal, provincial and federal governments, as well as individuals and local businesses allowed the construction of the current building, which opened up to the community on September 20th, 1981. The church was given a new life in 1999, with major renovations to the interior, exterior and roof, and it was finally given the

designation as the first Black National Historic Site in 2012. Mr. Simpson died on January 1982, but he left behind him a resounding legacy; his work will forever be preserved as part of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, and it remains a testament to the struggles of Africans living in Canada and the many ways in which these struggles were overcome by a very proud, and resilient people.

Amherstburg Freedom Museum is located at 277 King Street, and group rate discounts, as well as educational programs, can be arranged by calling 1-800-713-6336. You can also find them online at: Website: www.amherstburgfreedom.org Facebook: @AmherstburgFreedom Twitter: @Aburgfreedom They are open Tuesday to Friday from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, closed on Monday. Ticket prices are $7.50 for adults, $6. 50 for students and seniors and groups of 5 or more is $30.00. A trip to the Amherstburg Freedom Museum is a long one, but you can imagine how this trip was for many of our ancestors who were on the quest for freedom. It is time that we start to acknowledge the greatness of African History in Canada.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Clash of the Titans; A Night of Reggae Royalty SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Continued From Page 1 -- Andrew established Culchahworks in 2013, which is a Toronto-based, not-for-profit organization mandated to celebrate stories drawn from the African- Canadian, Caribbean-Canadian and African-American experience. The Culchahworks team has successfully managed to engage the community through live concert presentations, musical theatre, dance, film, and television documentaries, all the while preserving and honoring African culture and heritage. Members of the Culchahworks team include: Chair, Francesca Accinelli, a woman with in-depth knowledge and passion about Canadian television and film, the beautiful Sandra Whiting, a renowned speaker who has found a way to convey important messages using the art of storytelling, and finally, Joy Bullen who has given back to her community by helping organizations achieve their goals through a combination of fundraising, project management, strategic planning, and relationship building.

With such a power-packed team, it was no wonder that Saturday night turned out to be such a momentous occasion. The concert captured audiences of all ages, race, and culture with dynamic and entertaining artists. One extremely helpful element of the night was the mini video introductions that allowed the artists to share their experiences in the industry and provided perspective for the lovers of the reggae music scene. The rest of this article will highlight some of the artists and their innumerable accomplishments.

Wilburn Theodore Cole AKA STRANGER COLE Jamaican Ska and Reggae legend Stranger Cole migrated to Toronto in the early 1970s and went on to establish the first Caribbean business in Kensington Market.

JAY DOUGLAS His over 45 years of entertainment was evident on Saturday as he combined American Blues, West Indian Rhythms, Jazz, some fancy footwork, and an incredible on-stage charisma that is usually reserved for a man half his age. Jay has performed around the world, and at annual Toronto events including the Beaches Jazz Festival, Jerk Fest, Canadian National Exhibition, Yonge and Dundas Square, and the Taste of Lawrence.

WILLI WILLIAMS Born 1953, in Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica, Willi

Williams is a Jamaican Reggae and Dub musician and producer. He received the nickname the Armagideon Man, after his hit, “Armagideon Time,” which was first recorded in 1977 at the infamous Studio One in Kingston.

JASON WILSON When we talk about reggae crossing cultural, and racial lines, we have to talk about Jason Wilson who is a: two-time Juno-Award nominee, Canadian Reggae Music Award Winner, four-time Reggae Music Achievement Award nominee, and a Best-Selling Canadian Historian who hails from Downsview, Ontario. You would never suspect that Jason, who was born to Scottish immigrants, would find a way to synergize Folk music and Reggae music in such a uniquely artistic way.

One thing we cannot do is forget the fierceness of the Queens who were present that night. Let us take a look at some of the wonderful women of Canadian Reggae.

NANA MCLEAN Born in 1960, and hailing from Jamaica, West Indies, McLean was a childhood sensation and won various local carnival contests. Like many greats before her, Mclean made her debut recording sessions at Studio One in 1977.

Her very appearance on stage last Saturday sent the crowd into an uproar, which was felt in the upper rafters.

LIBERTY SILVER At the age of 12, Liberty Silver made history when she opened for Reggae legend Bob Marley. Since then, she has won a multitude of awards and is renowned for her six-plus octave range.

TANYA MULLINGS It is no surprise that this Dancehall Reggae Diva followed in her father’s footsteps. Tanya began her career in 1989, and since then has been the recipient of 11 Canadian Reggae Award, and five Caribbean Crucible Awards.

LEROY SIBBLES The night would have not been complete without the vocal stylings of the great Leroy Sibbles. Sibbles initially gained fame as the leader of The Heptones. He went on to a successful solo career and remains an international Reggae favorite.

Some of the other highlighted and featured artists that night included: Ossie D, Jimmy Reid, Otis Gayle, Bernie Pitters, Everton “Pablo” Paul, The Mystics, Roy & Yvonne Panton, Carol Brown, and Glen Washington. It is an outstanding accomplishment to see that this small reggae scene that sprouted in the 1960s and 1970s, gave genesis to artists and sounds that continue to influence the reggae audience to this very day. Great job Culchahworks for bringing such a powerful event to the city of Toronto.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

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Cultural Diversity Market with an Afrocentric focus MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Marva Squires and Christilene Elie made Sunday February 24th, 2019 a day like no other and that’s because the Legion Hall at 1133 Queen Street East in Brampton was overflowing with cultural vendors and patrons of all sorts. Squires told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper “for this event we even had to turn some vendors away.”

The Cultural Diversity Market with an Afrocentric focus had almost any and everything one could imagine. The products on sale ranged from hair oils, body butter, head wraps, jewellery, natural pet supplies, herbal drinks to massage oils, customised clothing, and makeup all geared to both sexes and much more.

The vendors were 99.9% women self-made entrepreneurs who started their own business or teamed up with other likeminded ladies to sell and showcase their craft, vendors like Christine Spence and Diane MC Bean of DCD Approach a fashion style firm located in Toronto that does hair, makeup, and hairstyling. They also have an

online boutique that specializes in the world of fashion.

Spence told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper “Our motto is you dream it and we create and design it, men’s and women’s wear plus jewellery.”

Aminah Hughes was one of the artist/designers that were on hand to showcase her handmade jewellery and metal bookmark business called Etat XXV. Hughes said she likes to keep her designs subtle instead of flashy and in your face. “My mother actually taught me how to make a few different types of jewellery items.”, Hughes said.

Designer Laiken Williams, a digital artist and graphic creator of Laiken Designz was also present displaying her work.

Even though the day was dominated by women entrepreneurs, Clayton Ffolkes aka Sketch a portrait artist represented the men, Ffolkes said: “I have been drawing ever since I could hold a pencil. I do everything art related, paintings, tattoos graphic designs, business cards, and flyers.”

Two women who founded and promoted the event, Elie and Squires were also vendors. Elie of Je’Nor, natural skin and hair products and Squires of Afrotique Satin Bonnet. Debbie Ervine an independent Mary Kay beauty consultant was also there.

The evening also featured spoken word entertainers and singers soca and r.eggae artist plus Michelle Jodhan (Female) Hip-Hop Dancer and Lavinia Latham (Talking about Natural Hair).

Also there were spoken word art-

ist Jjthedreame, rSpoken, word artist and author, GL Glowz, spoken word artist poetic emcee, rap artist, and hip-hop dancer Nappz MC, reggae music artist Da Coach, KYSO Quartet (Steele Pan Players), soca artist St.Ver-see-tyle, Youth Choir Wings of Passion, and singer Dajanae Trowers.

The pop-up market event featured mainly small business owners and entrepreneurs and this is the first year it’s taking place for Black History Month but they have done one before, Squires said “we have always been going to these events in Scarborough, Toronto and Ajax so we decided to bring it to Brampton because Brampton does not have these types of event.” Squires and Elie assured Toronto Caribbean Newspaper that this will be an annual event that features food and entertainment ‘This is just the tip of the iceberg. The public can expect big things from us in the near future.” Squires said.

The mighty duo as they would like to be called told Toronto Caribbean Newspaper that they would be hosting another event of this kind in the near future.

Elie and Squires met almost twenty years ago and between them, they share about seven years of experience in the business and would like to start educating the struggling entrepreneurs of Brampton on how to move and shake as they put it.

Squires said ‘There are so many entrepreneurs out there and most of them are women who want to build their own business and this is why we are doing this.”

JCA’s Boonoonoonos Brunch Celebrates 100 Years of Miss Lou SHAUNA-KAY CASSELL shauna-kay@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

This year the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) held their 19th Annual Boonoonoonos Brunch on Sunday, February 10th, 2019, to commemorate the Jamaican cultural icon, Mrs. Louise Bennett-Coverley, more familiarly known as “Miss Lou” under the theme, “Celebrating Miss Lou’s 100 Come Mek Wi Have A Boonoonoonos Brunch.”

Miss Lou, a Jamaican poet, folklorist, writer, and educator, who writes and performs her poems in Jamaican Patios continues to inspire us today. “This is the centennial year of the birth of Miss Lou…she was a pioneer in promoting our language at a time when it was not popular to do so,” says the Honourable Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport in the Government of Jamaica in her greet-

ings.

The annual brunch, which began in 2000, was held as a Black History Month celebration, and its purpose was to raise money for the JCA. However, the event has continued over the years and is now embedded as a cultural tradition. “I am so pleased that this event continues to garner so much attention and support,” says Adaoma Patterson, President, JCA.

The cultural performers for the afternoon were: playwright and actress, Marcia Brown, poets, Nadine Williams, and Jermaine Cowie, the Elite Dance Troupe, and author, Nadia L. Hohn, all graced the stage with their magnanimous presence, filling all 300 guests with bellyfuls of laughter. This brunch serves as a way of keeping Miss Lou’s legacy and spirit alive in our culture, and in each of our hearts. “It was moving to see a new generation of children and young adults embrace the lessons and cultural pride Miss Lou was so famous for,” expressed Patterson. “Indeed, the ackee and saltfish coupled with the callaloo and festival were exactly what the doctor ordered,” added Janet Lewis, Fundraiser Chair, JCA.

The JCA utilized this year’s Boonoonoonos Brunch to recognize and award the

PAGE 7

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Harbourfront Centre and McMaster University for playing a historic role in embedding Miss Lou’s legacy into the Canadian Mosaic.

At the Harbourfront Centre, visitors can tour Miss Lou’s Room: Interactive Exhibition Space, to observe photographs and listen to performances and recordings. Likewise, McMaster University Library has digitalized Miss Lou’s fonds, that is, all of her materials reflecting her life and legacy are now available for anybody around the world to see.

The Jamaican Canadian Association’s (JCA) mission is to deliver programs, including services to the community. The organization provides a physical hub, and advocates to improve the well‐being and equity of Jamaican, Caribbean and African‐ Canadian communities within the Greater Toronto Area. It is a volunteer-led organization and has existed for over 56 years.

The JCA’s Boonoonoonos brunch was a resounding success this year. It not only fed our bellies with good ole Jamaican cuisine, ackee and salt fish, callaloo and festi-WH 20 AT 17... val, but it also served us bellyfuls of laughter, AY and our hearts with rich cultural performancEAR es in our cultural language, Patois. The after! noon was a reminder that, like our cultural icon, we too can break free of the status quo.

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Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

A celebration of diversity and commonality michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Mississauga’s diverse community was well represented by CACD aka the Citizens for the Advancement of Community Development on the evening of Feb 21st, 2019.

There were people of numerous cultural backgrounds and races in attendance as well as a list of community and political leaders on hand to celebrate this melting pot of a city and as Ron Cunningham (Executive Director) of the organization said “We want to showcase what the black community has done here in Canada to make it the diverse and productive country that it is today’

The evening was chaired by none other than master of ceremony, radio personality and entertainer Mr. Chris Hayles himself of G98.7 FM and the distinguished speakers ranged from the founder Mr. Cunningham, Jamaica Consulate General Mr. Lloyd Wilks, Peel Police Inspector Donavan Howell, the MPP’s were Deepak Anand, and Kaleed Rasheed from Mississauga’s Cooksville

moved the couple to turn their attention to Toronto.

Cunningham said he thought “Here am I, running off to Jamaica to work with inner-city kids while the same thing is happening right here in my own backyard and so my wife and I registered this same organization CACD here in Canada as a non-profit organization.”

Cunningham said that for too long the good work that members of the black community have done here has gone unnoticed and one of the focuses of his organization is to keep these good deeds and the people that do them in the spotlight by recognizing them for their efforts over the years.

A huge part of the organization’s goal is making sure that at-risk kids age 10-25 don’t fall through the cracks by mentoring and keeping them on track to successful adult life through as he explained “programming that serves a unique need, develop leadership capabilities and foster civic participation.”

The CACD has over the years ran a number of programs for middle-school kids from 3:00pm-6:00pm MondayFriday. Cunningham said “The rationality behind this was that these kids had parents who were doing two or three jobs and between these hours the kids were unsupervised so we embarked on providing them with things like music, dance, art, photography, nutrition, and basketball to positively engage them.”

The organization targeted high schools in which certain kids were failing. CACD would then get the kids and provide a special targeted approach to the programs that they were failing so that they could succeed, said Cunningham.

When asked what the most difficult hurdle the organization has faced so far the founder replied “Funding. The CACD right now is at a plateau. It is sad to say but funding is of the essence and not all companies and corperations are giving funding as they used to, they are more strict and so there are greater requirements to achieve the outcome as they see fit from the organizations. More organizations are coming on board and the financial pot is shrinking. “However, the founder pointed out that CACD is a registered charitable organization and as such can issue a tax receipt for donations received.

The organization’s founder said that he would like to be remembered as one who despite the odds strived to lift up others and believes that despite our differences there is so much more that unites us rather than that which divides us.

The CACD can be reached at 647-339-2223 or e-mail rcunnin123@ rogers.comwww.cacdcanad

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From one speaker to the other the message was unanimously clear the CACD is all about unity and equality for all no matter your color, race religion or beliefs and as Mayor Crombie said with a wide smile in Mississauga, she welcomes everyone around the table.

That was very evident in the entertainment dished out by CACD that evening from a Chinese dance group, a Middle Eastern dance group as well as Black Canadian dancers and singer and a Heritage Drummer who performed.

The audience was treated to a predominantly Caribbean home cooked meal and treats fom rice and peas to jerk chicken, curry goat, sweet potato pudding, beef patties, and salad.

CACD is the brainchild of Cunningham, an accountant by trade who has worked with Bank of Montreal, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce and Royal Bank of Canada for over twenty years. He and his wife started the organization some 15-years ago in Toronto, before that he was always involved in community work on his island of Jamaica while still working here. Cunningham told Toronto Caribbean News “I have always had a strong passion for doing work with the less fortunate.”

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local news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Saint Lucia Let her inspire you!

ALYSSA MAHADEO alyssa@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Imagine a place with sparkling blue waters, lush tropical rainforests, and the smell of cocoa and sulfur entwined in the air. This is Saint Lucia, a gem embedded in the Caribbean Sea, a romantic retreat filled with the most spectacular views to explore. 15 meter high waterfalls, cascade from deep in the interior of the rainforest, pouring over a cliff into a garden, surrounded by lush greenery and vegetation, it is truly a sight to behold.

Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean island nation with a pair of dramatically tapered mountains, the Pitons, on its west coast. Its coast is home to volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts and fishing villages where locals and tourists alike come to experience its rich and vibrant history and cultures.

Their history is a rich tapestry, the island, a melting pot of cultures and carries a strong sense of heritage and cultural identity that the locals vehemently celebrate to this day.

342 meters above the ground, on the CN Tower lookout deck, members of the Saint Lucia travel authority hosted a VIP event to allow members of the Canadian media to network with hotel partners while also announcing the launch of the 2019 Saint Lucia Jazz Festival produced in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Centre.

The private affair was an intimate look at some of the local boutique style hotels and all-inclusive resorts where tourists to Saint Lucia are invited to stay when they travel to the island to explore its many facets and discover the beauty that Saint Lucia has to offer.

Honored guest for the evening, the Minister for Tourism, Information, and Broadcasting shared, “This year we are sending a brand new message, and that is Saint Lucia has something for everyone.”

“Traditionally we have positioned the island as a place where people come to lay on the beach and get a tan, but we are moving away from that, sharing our festivals in the summer, from May to October,” Minister Fedee explains.

“Chocolate and cocoa has made a big comeback, in the 70s when the ending

of preferences would have hit agriculture by globalization what we would have seen is that cocoa would have no future but chocolates started manufacturing high-end chocolates and people have started linking tourism with our cocoa and a lot of our resources are being built on chocolate plantations so it’s been working really well bringing out the soul of the destination.”

On the island of Saint Lucia, the unique combined influence of Caribbean, African, English, and French cultures create an exquisite blend of food, music, and traditions that will inspire and enchant you. It is a picture-perfect paradise of iconic landmarks and boasts to be so much more than an ordinary island. Her mountains, jungles, beaches, and historic sites radiate history, beauty and a sense of living poetry.

“We’re full of adventure, we manufacture some of the most amazing foods, and hot sauce, rum and if you call the people back home, they will tell you how the Dennery segment from Saint Lucia is taking the Soca industry by storm they are performing at every single carnival,” Minister Fedee says.

“We’ve realized that what makes a tourism destination, and what makes a place interesting to visit is not just the sand, the sun, and the sea, but all of these things combined with the vibe of the people. The Gros Islet street party that happens every Friday night the biggest and longest standing street party in the world. A local fishing village comes abuzz with hundreds of people, locals and tourists alike come together and these are the things that make a destination unique and we think that we’ve got it.”

Of course, it’s not possible to see every corner of the island during your visit, and even many locals live here their entire lives without discovering all of her secrets.

However, there are a few iconic Saint Lucia landmarks that are not to be missed during a visit to her shores. Saint Lucia’s reputation of being romantic is very well documented. Every single honeymooner loves to come for a relaxing getaway and many brides will plan her destination wedding there because it’s the most beautiful spot and they invite the world to come and enjoy.

The Caribbean is the world’s most tourism-dependent economy and there is a lot of potential for them to grow and expand, their goal is to fill their hotel rooms and create jobs and opportunities for the people. If you are thinking about planning your next island escape, consider Saint Lucia, go let her inspire you.

Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

local news

Brampton’s Black History Month closing event MICHAEL THOMAS michael@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Anyone looking at the pageantry and elaborate celebration that took place on the evening of Feb 28th, 2019, at Brampton’s City Hall would hardly be able to tell that this is the first year that the city has celebrated Black History Month officially.

The chairs that were adorned with special name tags, the exceptionally welldressed ladies in their African attire who spoke in whispers to each other, the everflashing lights of the cameras and the security personnel that moved in the shadows of the room.

The evening opened with a group of young kids who under the guidance of their coach moved the audience to applause after applause with their African style of drumming and reporters in the room could not get enough pictures and videos of these youngsters.

Mayor Patrick Brown welcomed everyone in the diverse crowd to his city with open arms and when asked what does Black History mean to him and the city he had this to say “It’s about celebration, celebrating the community celebrating legacy, celebrating contribution and this year we’ve really gone beyond what we’ve really seen three major events celebrating the community in Brampton and I am very proud of it.”

Brown also named a street John

Shadrach Way after John Shadrach the first black Canadian to be elected to the City of Brampton City Council, Mayor Brown said, “We are celebrating our modern history as well and doing something a little bit extra special in doing so.”

Many members of the black community received recognition for the hard work and longstanding service to the community. People like Andria Thompson from The Black Women Honors and Empowerment Brampton Chapter who received an award on behalf of their work in the community.

On hand to receive her award for 10-years of community work was Reverend Blessing Ajani from Glorious Women of Wonders Organization, Ajani said “We have been serving the community selflessly in Brampton we run a lot of programs like women’s voice empowerment program, youth for greatness program, food and clothe drive cetwork, mission work, and seniors care.”

The evening also featured a Nigerian dance group called Mbaise Cultural Organization. The secretary of the organization Tochi Onuoha told TCN “This is a group that promotes the tradition and culture of the Ibo people of Nigeria.”

One of the crowd pleasers of the evening was Angelene Bailey, a UFT grad who wooed the black history crowd with her smooth vocals, singing tunes from Anita Baker and Marvin Gaye. Baily said she just came to share her passion for music with the people of Brampton.

When asked what does black history mean to her? Baily answered “It has a lot of ups and downs but I am a very proud black Canadian, some people think that slavery made our history but I remember I read somewhere that slavery did not make

our history, it interrupted it, so black history is very important to me, but why is it the shortest month of the year?”

There were many more officials and entertainers on hand to celebrate black history including some members the Peel Police Force, Fire Chief of the city, other political figures and Evangelist\Recording Artist Gerry Thompson.

Amidst the entertainment folks had free refreshments, vendor booths, kids activities, a special Viola Desmond 10$ bill exchange (bring 10$ and trade it in to get a Viola Davis 10$ bill in an official City of Brampton 2019 Certificate) a special officer recognition of Deputy Chief Marc Andrews and Ingrid Berkeley, and Mayor Brown’s Making Black History Award Ceremony.

This was the third and final event for the month of February, the other two events were Brampton’s 1st Black History Month Flag Raising/Presentation Ceremony on February 1st,2019. This was the first Official Black History Month flag raising ceremony to be held in Brampton. The flag presented was the Pan-African flag (also called the Marcus Garvey, UNIA, AfroAmerican or Black Liberation flag). This flag was designed to represent people of the African Diaspora. The second event was Taste of Black History Month, held on Friday, February 22nd, 2019, from 12 pm – 2 pm at West Tower Conservatory, 41 George St.

With the standing room only crowd that just kept growing as the evening progressed into the night, one could not help but wonder, is this an indication of how Brampton celebrates and if Black History Month is made into an annual event in Brampton folks can expect to see a much larger gathering for the celebration next year.

Conversation with Angie Thomas about her new book On the Come Up SHAUNA-KAY CASSELL shauna-kay@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

Writers at the Rose, the newest addition to the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) held their reading series on Monday, February 25th, 2019, at the Rose Theatre in Brampton, in partnership with The Rose Theatre and the Brampton Library. The featured writer, and a New York best-selling author, Angie Thomas, gave an interview about her second book, On the Come Up, with Amanda Parris.

Angie confidently proceeded to the stage with cell phone in hand, along with a big bright smile that placed her audience at ease. She lifted her cell phone towards the audience and requested their permission to send a tweet. Upon Angie’s prompts; her audience of approximately 450, majority young adults, waved as Angie panned the room with her cell phone camera. In that instant, she had made a connection with her audience.

“When I was a teenager, I wanted to be a rapper” began Angie in mini outbursts of laughter, as she responded to a question from Amanda, a fellow writer. “It seemed like a way to help my family out of

poverty,” says 31-year-old Angie. This was the inspiration for the book, On the Come Up. It is a story about a 16-year-old Bri, who is obsessed with hip-hop and wants to make it as a rapper. Bri had to fight for her dreams and had to go through her own obstacles. In essence, Bri’s story is a representation of the challenges that young black people face, especially when they come to learn about the various encroachments on their freedom of speech. “You have a voice, use it,” expressed Angie matter-of-factly.

“There was an attempt to ban the book in certain states due to censorship, often like what happens to rappers. Society critics how young people says things” commented Angie.

Angie had a cascade of things to say, and for good reasons. At 6-years-old, she recounted seeing her first shootout.

The book, The Hate U Give (THUG) which was published in 2017, and selling more than 2 million copies, was inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. The main character, Starr, witnessed her friend Khalil being shot by the police and in turn wanted to do something about it, through activism. In many respects the main characters in both books have similarities. “…They’re similar in the fact that they are both powerful young women who know they have voices, and they both understand how they can use those voices to affect an entire generation,” expressed Angie.

Angie was not censoring her words. She openly shed light on black issues by using the characters of her books.

“We don’t talk about the after the fact,” says

Angie, in reference to mental health challenges that come after violence in communities, like Garden Heights, where the story takes place. “Bri’s mother turned to drugs because it was about mental health.”

But Bri found hip-hop. “Hip hop is a craft for people who have been through so much trauma,” mentioned Angie.

No doubt, this young woman, and extraordinary writer has come at a time when we needed her to use her craft to speak to our society. Angie is the activist in her own reality, in her own way advocating for young adults. “I love when young people say ‘thank you for your book,’ it’s the first time that I saw myself in a book” expressed Angie, feeling humbled and honored by her own journey. “I want black girls to know that you’re enough, just the way you are.

Black girls, it’s okay to be angry. You can be frustrated, and passionate. Be your true authentic self,” says Angie in closing.

Evidently, the conversation between Angie Thomas and Amanda Parris struck a nerve. The audience rushed out the doors to get their hands on copies of her books, which were on display at the Rose Theatre.

Indeed, Writers at The Rose was a successful reading series. It was a privilege to listen in on the conversation between two talented young writers, Angie Thomas and Amanda Parris discussing relevant issues affecting the young black population.

Copies of the books are available at Indigo bookstores or can be purchased online at amazon.ca.

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

local news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Pan-African Ahmadiyya Muslim Association Canada (PAAMA) Presents “Movin’ Forward!”

SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

If you are living in Toronto, Ontario, you will know that last Sunday, February 24th, was bitter cold, windy, and all the hell that winter in Canada has to offer. Thankfully, there was a warm place at Driftwood Community Centre, where the PAAMA (Pan-African Ahmadiyya Muslim Association) held a unique event to celebrate Black History Month. Before we go into the event, let us take a look at what PAAMA is, and what they do here in Toronto.

PAAMA Canada is an adjuvant organization within the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, comprised of Ahamadi Muslims of African origin living in Canada. Following the ‘Love For All, Hatred For None’ motto, the PAAMA members actively contribute to the society in which they live, as well as provide educational platforms focused on enlightening Africans living in the diaspora about religious affairs and secular matters. With the many challenges faced by people of African descent in the Greater Toronto Area, this unique, progressive and spirited association is helping to serve the needs of its members, the African Canadian community, and the continent of Africa at

large.

President Abdul Ghani Omokanye led the opening session with a heartfelt address introducing PAAMA to the community, and highlighting the fact that we are all connected, serving one purpose through understanding. He went on to explain that Islam teaches to serve all humanity as one family. To close his address, President Abdul Ghani Omokanye reminded the attendees that, “We are all Lions of Africa in the Diaspora.” This empowering symbolism highlights Africans strength, courage, and resilience. It serves as a reminder that Africans living in the diaspora have to effectively attack their dreams and passions, go forward with full confidence and be courageous.

One great opportunity that was added to the program was the ability for the vendors who were in attendance to speak on the work that they do in the community, which turned out to be an opportunity to strengthen bridges and create a platform that connected members of the community with the help they need. Below is a list of some of the vendors that were in attendance and a quick description is given that features their connection to the GTA community: Toronto Community Benefits Network www.communitybenefits.ca Their main objectives are: to provide economic opportunities that promote economic inclusion, develop a system of training and workforce development programs, support social enterprises, contribute to

a communities sustainability, and ensure clear commitments and accountability when it comes to delivering services to the community.

Healing Herbally www.healingherbally.com Deborah Castello, a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, and her two sons came to a realization that people have this need to take their health into their own hands, and one way to do this is by educating them through her service Healing Herbally. The team at Healing Herbally believes that nourishing your mind, body and soul, is the key to your best health.

JVS Toronto www.jvstoronto.org Since 1947, JVS has played a vital role in Toronto and York Regions. Through a mix of general and specialized services, they ensure that job seekers find jobs that fit their skills and passions and that in their work they are able to reach their full potential.

Women’s Health in Women’s Hands Community Health Centre www.whiwh.com Women’s Health In Women’s Hands is a Community Health Centre for racialized women living in Toronto and surrounding municipalities. They have put together a team of highly skilled health care professionals who specialize in the health and wellness of women from African, the Caribbean, Latin America and South Asia.

Pathways to Peace www.thepathwaytopeace.com Pathway to Peace is an international initiative launched by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, which provides comprehensive solutions towards achieving world peace. Their 9 Fundamentals of Peace are based on the teachings of Islam as presented by the World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama`at, the Caliph, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad. The Fundamentals of Peace include: 1. Recognition of the Creator 2. Global Unity across nations 3. Absolute Justice 4. Reject Extremism 5. Loyalty to Country 6. Need for Nuclear Disarmament 7. Elimination of Profiting from Weapons 8. Need for Economic Parity 9. Service to Humanity Also in attendance were: Natural Kids Movement led by Takiya Sobion, The Spot Youth Centre, the youth satellite of Jane / Finch Community, Choice Water Systems led by Keith Castello, and Seneca College, a Toronto college known for its comprehensive degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs.

Despite the extreme weather conditions, the Pan-African Ahmadiyya Muslim Associations 3rd Annual Black History Month Event was effective in reinforcing the concepts of humanity and respect for individual liberty, as well as the need for unity in the community.

MP Kamal Khera hosted a forum for Black Canadian Leaders in Brampton SHAUNA-KAY CASSELL shauna-kay@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

In closing out Black History Month, Member of Parliament (MP) for Brampton West, Kamal Khera hosted the Black In Brampton: A Forum for Black Canadian Leaders on Saturday, February 23rd, 2019, at Loafers Lake Recreation Centre in Brampton, Ontario. Over 60 participants and community leaders gathered together to voice their concerns, thoughts, and ideas to their MP on three focus areas: mental health, youth empowerment, and access to employment opportunities for black Canadians.

Khera offered her introductory remarks, paused for the audience to listen to both the Canadian and Black National Anthem, then paused again for a short video of the Honorable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship to give his remarks in his absence. “Black

History is Canadian History,” said Khera, “it is an important time to reflect on the contributions made by black Canadians to our nation.” The MP highlighted one such achievement, that of Ms Viola Desmond who is now featured on our Canadian $10 note.

Subsequent to all the preliminaries, Khera gave the audience an outline of the afternoon agenda. Then discussions ensued.

The first topic was youth empowerment.

Members from each table stood up to address the pre-populated questions and announced their unified responses having talked amongst themselves initially. For one thing, we were able to connect with each other, and each individual got a real opportunity to vocalize their concerns in an intimidating setting.

The forum featured MP for Whitby, Celina Caesar-Chevannes who interacted with the participants, discussing a range of issues, including mental health, the second topic on the agenda. “The more we talk about mental health in the black-Canadian community,” says Caesar-Chevannes, “the better we are able to overcome the stigma.” As someone who personally dealt with a mental health condition, Caesar-

Chevannes says, “owning my depression is my therapy, and talking about it gives others permission to talk…as well.” But mental health isn’t the only hurdle black Canadians face, another barrier to fight is the system. “We have got to get a better handle on how to navigate a system that is designed to keep us out,” expressed Caesar-Chevannes, “we need to be strategic.”

While the day’s agenda was circumvented a little, the key issues were still being addressed. Honest discussions about the urgent need for change were heard.

“We should be making demands. Why do we sit here, year after year?” one participant voiced. Both MPs responded with sensitivity, letting the participants know that their concerns were being heard. That, the forum was an opportunity to further the dialogue and facilitate the needs of the black Community in Canada. Both MPs Khera and Caesar-Chevannes highlighted in their discussion the government’s various funding initiatives available to black communities in Canada: (1) $19 million over five years to address the significant and unique challenges faced by black Canadians in mental health, (2) $9 million over three years to enhance community support for black Canadian youth, and (3) $23 million for multi-

culturalism, anti-racism strategy.

Khera, who was elected as Member of Parliament in 2015 in Brampton West, was only 26 years old. She has been elected MP for the largest Caribbean population in Canada. As such, the forum which brings members of the community together is necessary. The goal of such event is “to understand the gaps, and to come up with sustainable solutions”, says Khera. “But we can’t do it just with the Federal government. We need the city and stakeholders as well.”

The forum was informative; bringing together community leaders of Brampton West on a Saturday afternoon, to share their views with their MPs. With a final serving of dessert and fresh fruits from Gems House of Jerk, a Caribbean restaurant in Brampton, which also catered lunch for the participants; the event wrapped up with everyone blending for a group photo, and final goodbyes.

Now, the expectation is, the community and MP Khera will work together to strategically obtain funding in the three focus areas in order to implement sustainable initiatives that will make a difference in the lives of the Brampton West Community.

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island news

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Confusion over new mas route in South TRINIDAD -- The new Car­ni­val route caused dis­con­tent­ment and con­fu­sion with band lead­ ers in San Fer­nan­do with one of the largest bands not cross­ing the judg­ing point.

Kalicha­ran Car­ni­val which has dom­ i­nat­ed the South Band of the Year ti­tle for many years by­passed the judg­ing point on Har­ris Prom­e­nade and pa­rad­ed down Chan­ cery Lane on­to High Street.

Aaron Kalicha­ran said they did not see the log­ic in lin­ing up to cross the stage when the ti­tle this year would just be for brag­ ging rights.

“We did not boy­ cott the judg­ ing point. It is just the judg­ing point is not a judg­ ing point. In the meet­ing, they said there is no com­pe­ti­tion. They say there is no band of the year, the band of the year is just brag­ging rights, so why should we stay for an hour lin­ ing up by the judg­ing point and our mas­quer­ aders un­hap­py.”

The band leader said they were told that each band that cross­es the stage would re­ceive a stipend. Kalicha­ran said there were three bands in front of them so they de­cid­ed, rather than to park up for an hour on an in­cline and turn down the mu­sic be­cause of the close

prox­im­i­ty of the hos­pi­tal, not to pass in front the judges.

“With­out mas­quer­aders, there is no mas so we have to make sure our mas­quer­ aders hap­py.”

He said if there is no line up on Car­ ni­val Tues­day they will cross the judg­ing point with their pre­sen­ta­tion Ad­dic­tive.

Medi­ um band South­ ern Mas and As­so­ciates from Fyz­abad was the first to cross the judg­ing point at 2.45 pm, but with just about 30 of their 92 mas­quer­aders. Band leader Michael Ramkissoon said the po­lice did not al­low the two bus­es trans­port­ing his mas­quer­aders to en­ter the re­strict­ed area al­ though they had the of­fi­cial pass­es. As a re­ sult, he said his mas­quer­aders had to walk a long dis­tance from Skin­ner Park to the judg­ing point.

Af­ter cross­ing the stage with their pre­sen­ta­tion Fan­cy Na­tives, a band mem­ber spoke about hard­ships and dif­fi­cul­ties they faced in the last year and thanked their sup­ port­ers for their sup­port.

Speak­ing af­ter­wards Ramkissoon said who has been play­ing mas for 43 years, but pro­duc­ing his own band for eight years,

said over the last three years band­lead­ers have been ex­pe­ri­enc­ing dif­fi­cul­ty in re­ceiv­ing prize mon­ey.

“When we do get the mon­ey, we were get­ting a cut in the prizes. We had prob­ lems with the route. We had prob­lems with the judg­ing point.” He said one band was con­ fused as to where to pass and end­ed up fol­ low­ing his band.

“The bac­cha­nal start since J’Ou­vert be­cause the J’Ou­vert bands they had a prob­ lem, some did not want to go down Sut­ton Street, some want to go down Cipero Street.

When you don’t put mas down Cipero Street, down to Skin­ner Park, you killing it.” He said go­ing for­ward band­lead­ers and not politi­cians must be in charge of Car­ni­val busi­ness. “San Fer­nan­do is the sec­ond city in Trinidad and To­ba­go get more mon­ey than we for Car­ni­ val.” He said it usu­al­ly cost him $250,000 to bring out his band, but this year he scaled down his band from sev­en to four sec­tion at a cost of $100,000.

Fire­works Pro­mo­tions band­leader Ra­ju Nathu Hari al­so ex­pressed his dis­ap­ proval with the route. He said it caused some prob­lems be­cause the bands were be­ing told

to pass in one di­rec­tion while the city cor­po­ra­ tion ap­proved an­oth­er di­rec­tion.

“Not be­ing able to go down Cipero Street was the biggest prob­lem.” He said the new route was short and the mas­quer­aders would be short-changed. Fire­works was the third band to cross the stage with Ethe­re­al, a sev­en-sec­tion pre­sen­ta­tion, por­tray­ing beau­ ti­ful and mag­i­cal ob­jects, be­ings or places that are not of this world.

Reign­ing south Band of year champs Jages­sar Cos­tumes was the sec­ond band to cross the stage with Mn­in­con­jou which rep­ re­sents a Na­tive Amer­i­can tribe. The pre­sen­ ta­tion con­sist­ed of sev­en sec­tions. Some 12 bands reg­is­tered with the San Fer­nan­do City Cor­po­ra­tion, in­clud­ing three large bands, four medi­um bands and five small bands. Na­tion­ al Se­cu­ri­ty Min­is­ter Stu­art Young and Po­lice Com­mis­sion­er Gary Grif­fith made a brief vis­ it at the judg­ing point while the sec­ond band was cross­ing the stage. There was a small turn out of spec­ta­tors. Po­lice con­firmed that there were no re­ports of any ma­jor in­ci­dents.

- Trinidad Guardian

Alleged stalker charged with murdering Sophia woman GUYANA -- Raymond Oselmo called ‘Godie man’ was on Monday charged with the murder of Nadina Kalamadeen whom he allegedly at­ tacked last week.

The 49-year-old pork knocker of Lot 2736 North Ruimveldt had allegedly stalked the woman for weeks before killing her. Oselmo who was arrested last week appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan where he was not required to plea. He was remanded to prison

and the case has been adjourned to March 18 for report.

The mother of five was reportedly stabbed multiple times about the body by her attacker. That incident, which occurred in North Sophia, was witnessed by her two young chil­ dren. Guyana Chronicle was told that the man had been trying to get the woman’s attention for some time now but on each occasion, he received the ‘cold shoulder’.

On February 27, 2019 he showed up

at Kalamadeen’s home, calling for her but she was sleeping, and a relative refused to wake her up. Oselmo subsequently returned to her home and managed to get the woman out of the house and they were seen walking on the road together. Kalamadeen was walking in front while the man was walking behind her. He was seen inflicting stab wounds to the woman’s back as she walked.

The woman is survived by her five children and other relatives and friends. The

Guyana Chronicle was told that the suspect, after committing the act, attempted to flee the scene but was captured by a resident on a ped­ al cycle. He was handed over to the police and was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital for medical attention. Kalamadeen, who was rushed to the same hospital, was pronounced dead on arrival.

- Guyana Chronicle

Ganja farmers, company haggle over price JAMAICA -- President of the Cannabis Re­ vival Committee (CRC) Junior “Spirit” Cottle, is urging marijuana farmers not to accept any­ thing less than EC$300 = US$0.37 cents) for a pound of their product after a locally based medicinal cannabis company said it was offer­ ing US$50 per pound.

“We are not saying we are not going higher. But we are not going below that. And, under the medical industry, we’re looking for more than that. We will be negotiating but, as it stands now, under the amnesty, it mustn’t go below that,” Cottle told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).

In a statement last week, the CRC called on traditional cultivators of cannabis “to be on the lookout for some foreign investors who want to offer them lower than the unof­ ficial EC$300 minimum which they have been receiving for one pound of cannabis”.

The CRC said it had received infor­ mation that some investors have been “at­ tempting to put traditional cultivators against one another by recruiting some Vincentian

nationals to act as agents in getting them to arrive at this agreement”.

Cottle said that in some cases, as low as US$50 is being offered to growers.

The local medicinal cannabis com­ pany, Vincy Leaf, is offering US$50 per pound for the marijuana it buys and according to Ronald “Ronnie” Marks, a director of the com­ pany, the price was informed by how much his company can sell its product in Canada, its intended market.

“It’s oils. It’s not buds, it’s not recre­ ational marijuana,” Marks told CMC, adding that his company has to factor in the cost of processing and securing the cannabis ex­ tracts.

He said he fully supports Cottle’s quest to get the best prices for farmers, but said that the activist must be realistic.

Cottle said that a modern cannabis industry demands high standards and compli­ ance from all licensees. “This in itself requires a greater level of investment expenditure on the part of our growers, which means less

profits in their pockets,” he said, adding “tra­ ditional growers cannot accept such situation.

“After suffering extreme hardship from the eradication of our crops and impris­ onment by the state, after being robbed by un­ scrupulous middle men who credit our crops never to return, and by armed pirates, some­ times losing our loved ones in the process, we call on all farmers to resist such attempts,” Cottle said, urging the traditional farmers to rally around the CRC to negotiate “the best possible deal”.

Cottle told CMC that traditional grow­ ers of marijuana do not normally accept less than EC$300 for a pound of marijuana, noting “there are cases you may hear a man might tell you give him EC$400 a pound”.

He said the basic price of EC$300 a pound has been standard for 20 to 30 years and that “certain investors” have been offer­ ing US$50 per pound for marijuana during the amnesty period.

A marijuana amnesty law passed last year will waive criminal penalties for farm­

ers who can sell illegally grown marijuana to the medical marijuana industry within a speci­ fied one-year period.

Cottle said that during the amnesty period, farmers will not have to abide by the stiff standards that are required by the medical marijuana industry.

“It is not the same thing, it’s true, but EC$300 a pound is what is there now. That doesn’t require the rigid standards and compli­ ances that are required under a medical can­ nabis industry.

“After the amnesty period, the re­ quirements will be more rigid, so naturally, the investment into that industry will be greater, so we will be looking for more returns. But that is left also to be negotiated. And that will be based on the kinds of taxes and the kind of profit investors are making. And I think we will have access to that because, guided by the regulations, we will be able to get all that infor­ mation,” Cottle said.

- Jamaica Observer

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Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

feature

PAGE 17

Love & Light Jewels spread healing, positivity and truth through art and design There’s a big difference that’s noticeable when you have heart and soul invested behind your business. Tia Sutherland, the CEO of Love & Light Jewels believes in love and service to others hence there is always meaning and depth behind her work. or else it just doesn’t feel right.

Just about four years ago, Sutherland started her journey of using crystals to make jewelry as thank you gifts for some clients while she was working as a certified image consultant. By using the crystals, Sutherland knew the bracelets would have special meaning. The amethyst and white jade beaded bracelets were set to be a daily reminder of self-discovery, and self-love which she was gifting to others.

The entire journey of self-love and self-discovery was all too familiar to Sutherland as she was starting to gain knowledge of the meanings behind gemstones, crystals, Reiki energy, meditation, and yoga.

Sutherland’s love, appreciation, and understanding of the universe provided her with guidance and personal growth. Through her self-taught methods, Sutherland began to grow internally and externally through her business. This focus on her business life gave her a growing desire to make more of these special jewelry pieces. Behind every little piece is an overwhelming flow of love and light that Sutherland would pass along to her clients and customers. “People wanted to share with others the love and light these bracelets possessed and so as the universe would have it, Love & Light Jewels was born.”

Sutherland considers herself a light worker with a passion for art and design and she has turned this love and ap-

preciation into a business. What exactly does this mean? It’s simple; Sutherland motivates and inspires others through the powers of the universe and through the main sources of love, kindness, and selflessness. It is all about love light and healing.

The healing aspect can be found through the use of the Love & Light Jewels, which serve as a reminder to the wearer that each gem has a story and a special spiritual meaning. Sutherland is also a Level 2 Reiki practitioner and often infuses this energy into her jewelry items.

The accessories that Love & Light Jewels offer are supposed to promote positivity and high vibration to amplify your energy and uplift your spirit. The crystals are the core part of most of Sutherland’s products and they are meant to align with the customer’s intentions for life. For instance, different crystals and gemstones have different meanings, amethyst is meant to provide a soothing and relaxing energy helping your body with relaxation and balance to the mind. Love & Light Jewels have created an Amethyst Stand Up Crystal making it easy for customers to place in their bedrooms to promote a more soothing and therapeutic atmosphere.

Another stand out product that Love & Light Jewels offers is the Abalone Shell, which is linked to native tradition.

The shell is normally used as a smudge bowl in spiritual ceremonies while burning sage to clear and release negative energy.

The shell provides protective and healing energy to your spirit and environment in order to reduce negativity and promote peace and beauty. Sutherland also offers crystal care packages and sage bundles for

those that are starting their own journey of self-discovery and wellness. The Lavender Crystal White Sage Bundle that Sutherland has put together encourages her customers to take advantage of the clearing of negativity through the burning of white sage specially to purify the mind, body, and spirit. The clear quartz that comes with the bundle is said to amplify positive energy as you release and ward off negative energy and finally, the lavender provides healing calm and purity.

While adding unique products to her online collection all the time, Sutherland also has a special category of diffuser bracelets and lockets. This instant form of aromatherapy is elegant stylish and stays with you. A few drops of the essential oil of your choice can be added into the handmade gemstone diffusers to promote therapeutic benefits. Love & Light Jewels also promotes chakra healing which is about finding balance within your body. The flow of our bodies’ energy flows through us and out into the world creating a clear flow and healing is vital for those that want to achieve this balance. Love & Light Jewels has several chakra oils including a crystal infused Heart Chakra Oil with rose quartz, lavender and ylang ylang. The heart chakra according to Sutherlnad, is the center of love, unity, and balance. This oil can help you open your heart to love compassion and self-esteem. Other oils include a SelfLove oil, a Crown Chakra oil, Third Eye Chakra oil, Solar Plexus Chakra oil, Sacral Chakra oil, a Root Chakra oil, and a Concentration oil all infused with crystals. To make it easier for customers, Sutherland also created a 7 Chakra oil set perfect for those that

cannot decide or are looking for a perfect gift set.

In addition to this Love & Light Jewels offers bangles and bracelets with different jewels, some even set in gold, a collection of bridal jewelry, a children’s collection, earrings, rings, necklaces, hair clips, keychains, home décor from Brazil, mala beads and even a collection for men. The possibilities of finding something unique and just the right match for you is high through the continuous commitment of Tia Sutherland to her products at Love & Light Jewels. Soon the Love & Light Jewels products will be making their way to a physical space as Sutherland will soon be launching her own LLJ Boutique located by Bathurst and Dundas. The store will offer a physical space where customers can interact with Sutherland in order to gain knowledge about various crystals and gemstones to fit their particular needs and offer crystal care packs as sort of an introductory course for those that are interested in this form of wellness.

Sutherland always spreads her kind works by encouraging you to always believe in yourself and faith action and belief will always get you to your destination.

For more information explore Love & Light Jewels online and also look out for Sutherland’s booth at the upcoming Toronto Yoga Conference Show, March 28th-31st. at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Written by Leanne Benn Toronto Caribbean Reporter

Free shipping on all Canadian online orders over $100, 15% off your entire order when you use promo code: TOCARIB19, Visit Love & Light Jewels-Booth #1516 at the Toronto Yoga Conference and Show, and receive a FREE GIFT when you mention the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper with every purchase.

205-105 Weldrick Rd. East, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4C 9Y9 647-219-4194 | www.lovelightjewels.com Instagram - @lovelightjewels | Facebook - @loveandlightjewels

entertainment

PAGE 18

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Mr. Killa is King.

Grenada claims crown with sheer authenticity ABA LUKE

aba@carib101.com

ENT. PUBLICIST

The island of Grenada is in celebration mode today. Mr. Killa, real name Hollice Mapp has claimed the International Soca Monarch crown in Trinidad and Tobago, something never before accomplished by a non national of the Carnival Mecca. He’s now got the bragging rights! The entertainer, who hails from Guave, Grenada, has been touting

his powerful presence throughout T&T’s carnival season, showing the world how, no matter what, it pays to be true to self.

The spice isle of Grenada is quaint by all accord. Spice Mas maintains an authenticity in its style, maybe beyond the comprehension of the Western world and its adaptations, which include Trinidad and Tobago. Humble and authentic, Grenada’s vibe is pure, and it is something that is certainly felt in its cultural delivery. Its Jab, a pretty plane Mas effort, which consists of tar covered bodies and makeshift Mas depictions that could be as simple as a baby carriage being pushed, or as extreme as a coffin being carried atop shoulders in

the middle of the mayhem, leaves many in awe, every time. With that same authentic energy, Hollice Mapp, Grenada’s Cultural Ambassador, took over Trinidad and Tobago and claimed his honor on Friday night.

The International Soca Monarch was refreshed this season with the appointment of former Power and Groovy soca monarch champ, Fay Ann Lyons at the organisation’s helm. Many have credited her for her handling of the competition this year, having had only three months to pull off the unthinkable. Artistes have given her kudos for organization and the media too, have shown appreciation for her delivery.

Mr. Killa and the whole of Gre-

nada meanwhile, are eager to show the world just how amazing they are.

Other Grenadian artistes, Mr. Legz, Lil Natty and Thunda and Mandela, have all claimed Killa’s triumph a victory, not necessarily for self, but certainly for country.

The Groovy Soca monarch crown was won by Trinidad and Tobago’s Swappi who had a stellar season this year as well. His performance last night was truly passionate and effective. “Doi Doi” will now likely be a refrain heard around the Caribbean in the year ahead. Both artistes are certainly deserving of their moment and we at Ebuzztt tip our hats to them both.

- EBuzzTT

‘Famalay’ is officially in the Road March race in T&T aba@carib101.com

ENT. PUBLICIST

Wondering minds can now rest easy

track, has received immense fan fare, and by all accounts, is the most popular refrain at fetes this Carnival season in Trinidad and Tobago.

‘Famalay’ was released in January and has since amassed over 3 million views on YouTube. An official video was released this week with heavy emphasis placed on artiste camaraderie and the authentic Caribbean energy

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- EBuzzTT

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feature

PAGE 20

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Seven ways to

be an advocate

for women’s rights

Every year on March 8, countries around the globe mark International Women’s Day. It’s a time to both recognize women’s achievements and acknowledge the challenges they continue to face in the pursuit of gender equality.

Wondering how you can help promote gender equality in your daily life? Here are seven ways to make a difference.

1. RAISE YOUR VOICE Whether it’s in the workplace, among friends and family members or at a public event, speaking up on behalf of gender equality is an integral step in advancing women’s rights and freedoms.

Recent advancements

in women’s rights around the globe

According to the United Nations, “no country in the world has successfully eliminated discrimination against women or achieved full equality.” However, advancements are made each year that lend hope for a future in which women everywhere have the same rights as men. Here are a few ways women’s rights have progressed around the globe in recent years.

SOUTH ASIA • India. In the summer of 2017, the Supreme Court of India declared the custom of divorcing a wife by declaring “talaq” (I renounce you) three times to be illegal. This practice once left women without financial protection and many who were divorced in this manner became destitute. India also outlawed marital sex with minors in a bid to protect child brides in the same year.

• Nepal. The custom of banishing menstruating women to cattle sheds was outlawed in 2017.

THE MIDDLE EAST • Tunisia, Lebanon and Jordan. In 2017 these countries repealed laws that permitted rapists to get away with their crimes if they married their victims.

• Saudi Arabia. Women were given the legal right to

Women’s history quiz Familiar with women’s history? Take this brief mixand-match quiz to test your knowledge

a. George Eliot b. George Sand c. Currer Bell d. A.M. Barnard

2. SUPPORT WOMEN Supporting women can take many forms including listening to their stories, endorsing their businesses, offering counsel and providing resources that empower them to take charge of their own lives.

3. SHARE THE WORKLOAD Women do as much as two-and-a-half times more unpaid care and domestic work than men. Divvying up these jobs equally between men and women allows everyone to pursue other types of meaningful work.

EUROPE • Iceland. At the beginning of 2018, the country made it illegal to pay men more than women, a measure with which the country intends to close the gender wage gap.

NORTH AMERICA • United States. A record number of women ran for Congress and won Democratic Party nominations in 2018.

• Canada. Prince Edward Island joined the remaining nine provinces in offering women in-province abortion services in 2017.

2. Over the years, women have patented numerous important inventions. Match the inventor with the invention.

A. Mary Anderson B. Josephine Cochler C. Maria Telke D. Bette Nesmith Graham

a. Dishwasher (1886) b. Windshield wiper (1903) c. Liquid Paper (1958) d. The solar house (1947)

3. Throughout history, women have made and aided in numerous scientific discoveries. Match the scientist with the discovery.

A. Marie Sklodowska Curie (b. 1867) B. Maria Goeppert Mayer (b.1906) C. Hedy Lamarr (b. 1914) D. Gertrude Elion (b. 1918) Answers: A/b, B/c, C/a, D/d

A. Charlotte Bronte B. Louisa May Alcott C. Mary Ann Evans D. Amantine-LucileAurore Dudevant

AFRICA • Rwanda. A world leader in terms of female political representation, the country’s parliament has 106 seats, 59 of which are held by women as of 2018.

Answers: A/b, B/a, C/d, D/c

1. Women writers once regularly adopted male pen names in order for their works to be taken seriously.

Match the author with the pen name.

drive in 2018.

LATIN AMERICA • Chile. In 2017 the coun­try decriminalized abortion in cases of rape, fetal impairment and when pregnancy is life threatening.

a. A radio signalling device that was the precursor for Wi-Fi technology b. The elements polonium and radium c. The nuclear shell of the atomic nucleus d. Drugs to treat leukemia and prevent transplant rejection

4. GET WOMEN INVOLVED IN POLITICS Communities need women to assume leadership roles so that women’s concerns and needs can be better addressed.

Encourage women to run for leadership roles and vote for them when they do.

5. EDUCATE YOUTH Both boys and girls should learn about the status of women’s rights and how they themselves can become advocates of gender parity.

6. ENSURE WOMEN KNOW THEIR RIGHTS Women need to understand the legal and civil rights they have and how to protect them at home, at work and in their communities.

7. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Social media platforms are increasingly becoming a place where advocates of women’s rights can join forces to affect social change. For International Women’s Day, join the conversation by using the hashtags #BalanceforBetter and #IWD2019.

This year for International Women’s Day, look for ways you can become a champion of women’s rights. No matter how small, every voice counts and every step for­ward matters.

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From

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each

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PAGE 26

food

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Why Meatless March is good for you

A 31 Day Challenge

to revitalize your body

NOEL CUNNINGHAM noel@carib101.com

CULINARY EXPERT Ash Wednesday Lent Today marks the beginning of Lent on the Christian Calendar, a 40-day reflection before Easter. many people use this period to give up something to make a change in their life. How about a meatless March challenge?

Why meatless March?

Going meatless will help rid some of those extra pounds, detox and revitalize your body. For me when I started meatless March in 2017 it was all about trying a new diet different from my own. But the wonderful thing for me was to use this opportunity to learn more about plant-based protein. I must admit I did feel the difference.

Benefits of going meatless • Weight loss • Lower cholesterol levels • Have a cleaner gut • Reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome • Make your skin glow • Gain energy • Boost your metabolism • Reduced risk of heart disease.

Tips for surviving a meatless diet for meat lovers • In your first couple of days, plan meatless meals that you already like, such as lasagna, pasta, or soup, and then gradually try other dishes.

• Make your meal ahead of time and store in the refrigerator so once you feel hungry you have something ready.

• Make a list of your favorite veggies and add these to your dishes • Get friends and family to join. I always challenge my co-workers.

• Treat yourself by eating out at a vegetarian restaurant.

If you are someone who thinks you could never

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This rich and creamy dish is packed with all the essential nutrients you need and it’s ready in less than 30 minutes.

Ingredients • 2 tbsp. coconut oil to sauté • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 1 carrot, peeled and sliced • ginger, finely chopped • 3 cloves garlic, minced • scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped • 1 tbsp. curry powder • 2 tsp cinnamon powder

• • • • • • • • • •

2 tbsp. tomato paste 1 (400ml) can coconut milk ½ cup of water 1 (16oz). can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 stalk scallion 1 sprig thyme salt & ground black pepper to taste ½ tsp pimento powder 1 handful spinach (optional 1 tsp. cornstarch mix in water (to thicken)

Directions 1. In a medium sauce pot with coconut oil over medium heat, sautee together onion, carrots, garlic, ginger, and pepper until translucent.

2. Add curry powder, cinnamon powder, and tomato paste. Stir to combine then add coconut milk, water and chickpeas. Allow to simmer for 10 minutes.

3. Reduce flame and season with remaining ingredients. Thicken with cornstarch if desired and allow to simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Serve with plain rice or in a wrap.

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Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

Five important questions to ask during your

plastic surgery consultation

PAGE 29

5

things to know about

Always make sure it’s the actual surgeon and not an assistant or nurse that you speak to during the consultation.

Once you’ve decided to have plastic surgery, the next step is to find the right surgeon. You can start by getting recommendations and reading online reviews to narrow down your choices, but before making a commitment to any one surgeon, it’s best to consult with at least a couple.

This is the time to ask all the important questions including these five: 1. Are you certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada?

2. Can I see before and after photos of your work?

3. Do you specialize in the procedure I’m looking for and how often have you performed it?

4. Will the surgery take place in a private office or at a hospital and do you have hospital privileges if you operate in your office?

5. What are the complications that can occur with this surgery and what steps will be taken if there are any?

The best surgeons are the ones that not only have exceptional surgical skills but are also able to inspire confidence in their patients. If you find a surgeon who does excellent work and answers all your questions in a friendly and honest manner, you’ve likely found the right cosmetic surgeon for you.

injectable beauty treatments Once reserved for the wealthy, medical beauty treatments are becoming more common. If you’re thinking about getting injectable cosmetic treatments, here are five things you should know before going under the needle.

1. There are different kinds: the two most common injectable beauty treatments are neuromodulators that freeze your muscles and fillers that plump areas that have thinned with age.

2.

It’s a medical procedure: injectable beauty treatments should be administered by medical professionals in a medical environment, so stay away from people offering the service in a salon or at home.

3. A little goes a long way: using fillers under your eyes or neuromodulators on

the wrinkles around your mouth can help you achieve beautiful results. But if you go overboard with treatments, you risk looking frozen and unnatural.

4. The effects wear off: these treatments aren’t permanent, so if you like the results, be prepared to repeat them a few times a year.

5. Don’t take the deal: injectables should cost hundreds of dollars per syringe of product, and most treatments use more than one syringe at a time. If you see a price that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

There are many different medical cosmetic treatments available. A doctor who specializes in injectable cosmetic treatments will be able to suggest the best ones for you.

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health

Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

PAGE 31

ADHD in girls versus boys: why girls often go undiagnosed Are you protecting your hearing?

It may seem overly cautious to always turn down your music or wear earplugs to concerts, but failing to protect your hearing can have serious consequences for your mental and physical well-being.

Untreated hearing loss can take a toll on job performance and personal relationships and may lead to experiencing shame, isolation and low self-esteem.

It also makes you less alert to dangers around you and impairs your ability to

remember and learn new tasks. What’s more, hearing loss has been linked to serious conditions like depression and dementia.

In most cases, hearing loss happens gradually, so make sure to have your hearing checked by a health professional about once a year. Keep in mind that while most hearing loss is age related, excessive noise exposure can permanently damage your hearing at any age.

Prescription opioids: what you need to know Prescription opioids are medications used for treating acute pain due to surgery, serious injury or illness. When used correctly, opioids can effectively control severe types of pain. However, they’re also powerfully addictive and taking them can lead to fatal overdoses. With Canada in the midst of an opioid crisis, it’s important to understand how these painkillers work and what to do to prevent overdosing and addiction.

ABOUT OPIOIDS Opioid drugs are chemically similar to endorphins, which block pain by binding to receptors in your nervous system. Opioids imitate endorphins but cause a much stronger pain-blocking signal. Commonly In 2016 and 2017, close to 7,000 Canadians died from an opioid-related overdose. On average, 16 overdoses resulting in hospitalization occur each day across the country.

prescribed opioid drugs include morphine, oxycodone and fentanyl.

When taking these drugs, over time your brain starts to crave the high caused by the release of dopamine following a dose of opioids, which can lead to addiction. What’s more, since opioid receptors regulate your breathing, abusing opioid drugs can cause you to stop breathing altogether, possibly resulting in death.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES If you’re prescribed an opioid, you should take the following precautions: • Discuss possible risks and alternate treatments with your doctor • Take the medication exactly as prescribed, at the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time possible • Avoid giving your prescription drugs to others and store them away from children, adolescents and individuals with a history of substance abuse • Never mix opioids with alcohol • Dispose of leftover pills through a prescription take-back program If you or someone you know experiences extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing or disorientation while taking opioids, call 911 immediately.

According to Canada’s Centre for ADHD Awareness, boys are twice more likely than girls to be diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). How­ ever, girls aren’t less prone to ADHD, rather, their symptoms differ and are less easy to recognize.

Research shows that while boys tend to demonstrate hyperactive behaviours and externalized symptoms of ADHD — running around indoors, acting out, fidgeting, etc. — girls more often exhibit inattentive behaviours and internalized symptoms like anxiety.

Because girls’ symptoms are less noticeable, parents and teachers often don’t recognize them as signs of ADHD. As a result, many girls with ADHD aren’t diagnosed until well into their teens and twenties. In some cases, it’s misdiagnosed as a learning disability or mood disorder.

ADHD in girls include low self-esteem, appearing withdrawn, anxiety, forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, messiness and a tendency to daydream.

Boys’ symptoms are more likely to include hyperactivity, excessive talking, difficulty sitting still and physical aggression.

(These are just generalizations and some girls with ADHD exhibit hyperactive behaviours while some boys may respond to the disorder by becoming quiet and withdrawn.)

If you’re a parent or teacher, keep in mind that hyperactivity isn’t the only way that ADHD manifests in children. Look out for all possible signs of ADHD and get a professional diagnosis if necessary.

Undiagnosed ADHD in girls can lead to low self-esteem and mental health issues like depression, anxiety and eating disorders. They’re also more likely to struggle in social situations and personal relationships.

Some common symptoms of

Is it better to sleep on your left or right side?

According to numerous sleep surveys, the majority of people sleep on their si­ des rather than on their backs or stomachs. But did you know that which side you sleep on can affect your health?

According to experts, sleeping on your left side benefits your digestive and cardiovascular health. For instance, several studies found that lying on your left side reduces acid reflux. Since your stomach

is located on the left, the position keeps gastric juices lower in your esophagus. It also allows gravity to help with moving waste through your colon.

Some doctors also believe that lying on your left side benefits your heart by allowing blood to flow to it more easily. It’s especially recommended that pregnant women sleep on their left sides as it increases blood flow to the uterus and fetus.

health

PAGE 32

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Poor posture can kill you!

DR. VIKAS PURI drpuri@carib101.com

HEALTH SPECIALIST

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What is that cracking sound I hear during a treatment?

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Parents are always telling their children to sit up straight, and not to slouch. Good posture evokes a sense of confidence, youth, and beauty. But did you know that studies show poor posture to be related to an increased incidence of disease and death? It’s true!

Dr. Henry Winsor was the first to publish this kind of study. He autopsied 50 cadavers and found 139 diseased organs.

Each of these organs was traced back via its nerve supply to a spinal curve distortion, most of these being minor spinal misalignments (also known as subluxations).

More recently, Dr. Kado published a study in the Journal of Geriatrics that correlated accentuated mid-back curves with an increased death rate and increased incidence of heart disease.

In fact, posture is now the number one predictor of early onset of Alzheimer’s disease. 90% of the information to the brain every day comes from our posture. In other words, the sense of where our body is in space called proprioception. If this information is poor, caused by bad posture, our brain cells start dying at a rate of two square centimeters per year.

These studies support long-standing chiropractic principles. Our health is directly related to proper alignment and motion of the spine. There are three parts of our spine, the neck (cervical), mid-back (thoracic), and low back (lumbar). The neck and low back have a reverse c-shape called a lordosis, while the mid-back has a c-shape curve called a kyphosis. It is crucial that these normal spinal curves be maintained within normal ranges. Poor posture

is one of the things that alters the proper shape of our spine, leading to more strain and pressure on our spinal joints. The result is irritation and pressure on spinal nerves as they exit the vertebral column, which creates a reduction in nerve flow and blood supply to the various organs where that nerve goes. This leads to eventual dysfunction and disease. Not only at the spinal level in the form of spinal decay leading to arthritis, but also at the vital organ level. Any and all diseases may be linked to spinal subluxations. For example, the most common postural faults occur at the upper back and base of the neck. These areas connect neurologically with the heart and lungs. Subluxations in these areas can lead to premature cardiopulmonary disease and death.

Poor posture has become an epidemic. We are constantly sitting in front of our laptops and computers. Sitting is thought to be the new “smoking”. And “text neck”, caused by constantly looking down at our cell phones is leading to degenerative changes in our neck in young teens and adults today.

Chiropractors are specially trained to correct postural distortions and remove nervous system interference before it leads to disease. They perform computerized and other posture analysis along with xrays and a thorough spinal examination to evaluate one’s posture. They then perform specialized treatment, known as spinal adjustments, along with recommending exercises and orthopedic devices that begin to restore one’s natural posture. As this happens, the amount of stress hormone in the body decreases, muscle tone improves, and neurological improvements are noted.

As this happens, our overall health and vitality improve.

Preventative medicine is the best medicine. Everyone should visit a chiropractor regularly for spinal “tune-ups”.

Maintenance prolongs life. We do it for a car so why not for ourselves? And remember, sit up straight, it could save your life!

3115 Winston Churchill Blvd Mississauga, Ontario L5L 5S3 (905) 569-0323

The cracking sound that you might hear during a chiropractic treatment is caused by the movement of gas bubbles in the viscous fluid (synovial fluid) that is present in joint cavities. Ligaments stretch when the chiropractor repositions your joints or increases their mo­bility. Because of this, gas is immediately released and causes suction, which makes a noise that sounds like a crack. This phenomenon is called “cavitation.” Rest assured that nothing is breaking or stretching too far and that the sound is not the result of friction between two bones.

Indeed, this cracking noise can take people by surprise, but it isn’t painful or dangerous. However, if the sound makes you uncomfortable, there are other equally effective techniques that do not involve

cavitation. For example, chiropractic treatments administe­red to young children are done without cavitation and are so gentle that some babies sleep throughout the session. If requested, chiropractors can use a different technique, working with either their hands or specialized instruments to produce the desired effects.

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PAGE 34

community

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

“Your Stress affects me, Mommy!”

Understanding how emotional pregnancies affects a child SIMONE SMITH simone@carib101.com

HUMAN SPECIALIST

What up Toronto! Welcome to another edition of A Better Tomorrow with Simone Jennifer Smith. This is one of those times when I have to really thank my readers for being so supportive and providing me with the criticism and encouragement that I need to become a better writer. I had a whole plan this week on what I was going to write, but one phone call this afternoon changed the course of my thoughts. As my faithful readers might know, I have been spending some time in Windsor Ontario, taking in how south-western Ontario celebrates Black History Month. I had planned on dedicating the next few months to highlighting important men, women, and places that can be found in this part of Ontario, but life never quite goes as you expect.

To protect the family in discussion, I will not be disclosing their names, and parts of the story will be left out. A very bewildered young lady called me this afternoon; I could tell she was flustered, even though her tone

was very controlled. We went through the introduction phase of the conversation, and then she began to tell me her story. She has a young daughter who has suicidal ideation, and like any other mother who is watching their child suffer, she was devastated. She had turned to the school board, her doctor, and the hospitals for help, and had been severely let down. One of her friends had referred her to me, and this is how we ended up talking. After hearing her out, I had some questions and one of these questions triggered her thoughts. She told me that when she was pregnant with her daughter, she had gone through major emotional upheaval. We discussed the situation and she drew some interesting conclusions: her pregnancy with her first daughter was a healthy and happy one, and because of this, her first daughter was emotionally secure, doing well in school, and was generally a very happy child. She had always known that there was a difference in her two daughter’s temperament and personality, but she did not realize until that moment that the trauma she had experienced when she was pregnant with her second daughter might be why the little girl was dealing with high levels of emotional distress.

Me being the researcher that I am decided that I was going to dig a little deeper.

My question is, can a mother’s emotional state have an affect on her unborn child? Also, how will this manifest as a child develops? I found

three great articles that you can check out when you get a chance; I will be sure to post them at the end of the article for you to reference. This article was developed from the information that I found, and I hope that it will be of help. It was noted in all three articles that stress experienced by a woman during her pregnancy might affect her unborn child as early as 17 weeks after conception. Some of the potential and harmful effects include slow learning, behavioral problems (ADHD), depression, and anxiety.

Research shows that at about 17 weeks, cortisol in amniotic fluid has a strong positive relationship with cortisol in maternal blood, and the strength of the correlation is stronger with increasing gestational age.

It was also found that the relationship the mother has with the father matters. A supportive partner can help to buffer some of the effects, but an unsupportive one can put additional stress on the mother, and hence additional stress on the baby.

More research needs to be done on this topic. It is important because one of the most susceptible times in a person’s life is when they are developing in their mother’s womb. Pregnant mommies, if you are exposed to long-term stress situations, seek support from a counselor or a therapist. They will be able to support you and teach you ways to handle your stress. Knowledge is power!

The freedom of being yourself COLLEEN LINDBERG colleen@carib101.com

LIFESTYLE COACH

It has been said that the most freeing experience in our lives is when we realize who we really are and what we are here to accomplish. So, I wonder, do we ever really figure this out? I think that we can and do, in small increments every day.

If you look at your life and evaluate the things that you do every day from your job to your families, lifestyle choices and social events. Then ask yourself when I am doing these things are there times that I feel at peace? Are there times where I get this overwhelming sense of joy for life? Am I happy?

Do I feel connected to the people around me and who I am with? These are all things that lead us to who we are. The feelings of joy, peace, love are all signs that you are in alignment. It’s when the feelings of irritation, anger, frustration show up that we know things

are out of alignment. This might mean that the scenarios you are in are toxic for you and your dreams. This might mean that you are meant for other things in life.

Is it really realistic to think that we can always be in joy and peace? Not really but striving for it on a daily basis will keep us sane. I know enough about life to know that we are humans here on earth and we can’t avoid all pain, disappointment and other feelings like this. But we can, however, curb the amount, get a new perspective on them and move through those feelings faster.

A few things I have learned on this throughout my life 1. People don’t do things to you, they do things for themselves. Sometimes we really take things personally, which then creates all these emotions that are made up in ourselves, when the person never intended us to feel or wasn’t even necessary in the first place. When you are broached with a conversation or situation that stirs up negative emotions in you, I would ask the questions “Is this my circus?” ie: Do I need to learn from this or feel this. If the answer is no, then honor the transaction and disengage.

2. We are all in this together on this expe-

rience and in this journey. The goal is to find more happiness every day and keep aligning ourselves with the people, things, and situations that make us happy. We don’t have time for people that hold us back here or bring in negative vibes. We try to change them, but really it doesn’t work. Just let the relationship go and if it’s meant to be it will come back, but please do not sacrifice your positive vibes on the people that don’t appreciate it.

3. We are in charge of our happiness. We are. Period. You get to choose every day.

If you don’t like your job and it’s a toxic environment, find another one. If you are in a toxic relationship, leave. I know it’s complicated but your relationship with yourself and your happiness are more important than that. Change is hard, I get it, but really you are meant for amazing things in life, you just need to choose you.

Out of all the things I could share with you today here is the main take away. You are supposed to live a life with joy, peace, love, and happiness in it. Our jobs are to find out what does that for us and do more of that. Happy hunting.

Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

life

PAGE 35

Preservation of economic rights during cohabitation VALERIE DYE valerie@carib101.com

LEGAL SPECIALIST

For the most part, discussions about property division and equalization arise in relation to separation, divorce or death. Quite often, when parties separate, the court may find it necessary to grant a non-depletion order or preservation order against one spouse if the court is satisfied that the spouse is taking measures to deplete matrimonial assets to avoid an equalization payment. Section 12 of The Family Law Act outlines the steps the court may take in this

regard. Section 40 of the Family Law Act also provides for the granting of a restraining order to prevent depletion of assets which is done by one spouse in order to avoid making support payments.

While such orders are more common among couples who have separated, the Family Law Act also protects spouses who are still cohabiting. This situation is provided for under section 5(3) of the Family Law Act which states as follows:

When spouses are cohabiting, if there is a serious danger that one spouse may improvidently deplete his or her net family property, the other spouse may on an application under section 7 have the difference between the net family properties divided as if the spouses were separated and there was no reasonable prospect that they would resume cohabitation.

The intention of this provision is to protect one spouse where it becomes

apparent that the other spouse intends to take measures to deplete his assets, which will, in turn, affect the rights of the other spouse. For instance, spouse A may have a greater value in assets than his wife, spouse B. However, spouse A may decide to transfer some of his assets to other family members or may simply squander his assets so that in the event of a subsequent divorce of death spouse B will not benefit significantly from an equalization of net family assets.

The Court of Appeal of Ontario ruled on this issue in the case of Stone vs Stone in 2001. In that case, the husband knew that he was going to die very soon and to prevent his wife from benefiting from his assets he transferred most of it to the children he had from his previous marriage. The court ruled that the wife could have brought an application for equalization and division of asset before the hus-

band’s death even though they were not separated. However, since the transfers were done without the wife’s knowledge the court made an order revoking the transfers and allowed the wife to proceed with the process of equalization.

It is important to note that, firstly, this process of equalization can be started even though the parties are not separated and though they continue to be married to each other, once it can be proved that one party is depleting his or her assets. Secondly, once the equalization process takes place the parties can no longer go through any further equalization process in relation to their marriage.

The benefit of this provision is that no spouse has to sit idly by while the other spouse intentionally or otherwise, depletes his or her assets.

Dr. Arrogant KATHY McDONALD kathy@carib101.com

SCHOOL TRUSTEE

I am sitting in the emergency room at Brampton Civic writing this article. To those that don’t really know me, the irony will be lost on you. Firstly, I vowed I would never seek treatment at this facility after I was both physically and verbally assaulted by a nurse at this institution some 21 years ago.

Well, I know that this site is relatively new but in my mind the staff all moved to this location, so for all intent and purpose it remained the same. The second reason is that I noticed a huge disparity in how different patients of different racial and ethnic identities were treated. Being on the “different” side of the equation I never felt welcomed by this institution. Fast forward a few years it’s deja vu, nothing appeared to change at this institution in my opinion. However, having just this week attended an exhilarating Black History Celebration at the UHN (United Health Network) where its President and CEO, Dr. Kevin Smith convincingly stated his commitment to eliminating anti-black racism, I have to be hopeful that real systemic change is on the way .

While most of the staff treated us

with dignity and respect, I had the unfortunate experience of meeting an emergency room physician that was not only disrespectful and demeaning to most people of color but saw nothing wrong with dropping the F-bomb quite freely as he went about doing his business as usual. I only assume being a doctor no one dared to do anything about it. I know I did not as I did not want him harming my child. The fact that people in authority find it ok to perpetuate stereotypes and go around oblivious to the degrading effects of such stereotypes behooves me. So, Dr. Arrogant says, as my son is obviously nervous and squeamish about getting an IV. “Don’t worry, you’re ok, Philippines are the best at needles, in fact, they are the best at everything…. HAHAHA”. “No!!

Jackass. Don’t you say this crap to my son and perpetuate such stupidity “my uncle is the best anesthesiologist around”. That’s my retort in my mind. If I was the one getting the IV, I would have verbalized my thoughts, but I was not willing to risk my baby boy’s health.

So just like that, the crushing reality of life as a black person in Brampton, in the Region of Peel, in Ontario, in Canada in North America, in fact in the whole wide world. Only a few days ago I emceed a really uplifting culminating celebration at Brampton City Hall and felt that true meaningful change is making its way to the city. During the month of February, I attended numerous celebrations across the Peel District School Board (PDSB) and noticed significant progress in the way Black History was be-

ing depicted. I even rejoiced at every small hint of progress. Unfortunately, however, I am starkly aware that one cannot take for granted even the slightest perceptions of progress or progress that is achieved because there is always the Dr. Agorrants of this world, waiting in the wings, ready to remind our children that as a society they are often viewed as less than or that they are somehow inferior and cannot and will not ever measure up.

After hearing Dr. Smith’s address, I hope that no one will ever have to experience what I did some 20 years ago at the Toronto General Hospital as a nurse snapped at my gynecologist Dr. Lanval Daly and rebuffed me for having more than two visitors in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). To make a very long story short. When I gave birth to my first pride and joy I had an emergency C-section and my firstborn, with an Apgar reading of 2 was fighting to live, I was allowed to visit anytime in the NICU but only allowed one visitor (my husband was counted as a visitor). So, when the NICU nurse saw my black gynecologist, my husband and myself at my newborn’s cot that’s when she told Dr. Daly to “Get out!.” then turned to me and said, “Don’t you know you’re only allowed, one visitor?” Needless to say, Dr. Daly with his charming and debonaire self-put that nurse in her place without even ruffling any of his feathers. Unfortunately for him, such interactions were not uncommon.

Some may say the nurse simply lacked any bedside manner or others may say she was oblivious to the fact that black doctors do

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exist, and they don’t count as visitors. They are staff too just like she was. I say it is both.

Well, we as a society have a lot of work to do.

How would the amazing and hard-working black nurse on the floor feel when being exposed to such comments.

Members of the wonderful African, Black and Caribbean community we must not rest on our laurels. It is imperative that we seize each and every opportunity to nip any form of anti-black racism in the bud. Rest assured I will not leave Dr. Arrogant’s comment unchallenged. I have chosen to remain silent as at this moment my son is receiving his meds and life-saving medications. He had an allergic reaction to Courtney Guy, the People’s Choice Winner’s amazing walnut salad. Who knew that he was allergic to walnuts? Now we know!

So, to all people who think our work is done and we can sit back. I caution you. WE CANNOT REST. There is so much work to do. This work is too big to be done by one or two persons we all need to participate. Participants must include you who think; well I am fine, my kids are doing well, I am a good parent, it’s the problem of the kids with bad parents, it’s a single mother problem, I am educated, I am not poor and any other starta of the community that think it does not affect them. As Martin Luther King Jr. said “An injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere….. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly”. So, journey with me and let no kid, no student and no member of the community be left behind. Walk Good! Belle Marché.

life

PAGE 36

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Strange Fruit: The hidden truth of a Billie Holiday creation NOW ACCEPTING

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To submit a show proposal, please log on to www.mytcntv.com and click on “Propose A Show”. All proposals are subject to review and approval. All shows are streamed LIVE and in studio (Brampton, ON)*.

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BRITTNEY CHANNER brittney@carib101.com

JUSTICE WARRIOR

Hey Guys, Welcome Back! Earlier today I had an exam regarding the topic of politics and its place within music. I must admit, some aspect of this course can be insanely boring, but as I was reading about the numerous musical artists that somehow used their music as a way to protest injustice, I came across Billie Holiday and a brief description of a song she performed entitled “Strange Fruit”. As inquisitive as I was, something told me to look up the song and give it a listen; and to my surprise, the effect it had on me inspired this very article.

Although the month of February has finished, it is never too late to acknowledge Black History and the role it had on social justice. To me. every day is a chance to learn and understand the multiple sacrifices African people throughout history have made for the further advancement of people such as myself. Social justice was an integral part of human society within the 1960s in the United States, Canada and all throughout the civil rights movement. Social justice was an idea that many individuals actively tried to represent, and this was done through many outlets. One popular outlet was through music and the lyrical content that was produced.

Many singers used their music to educate the masses on the injustices that many individuals, specifically African Americans, were facing at that time.

It was music that gave people hope in serious times of oppression, racism, and inequality. The song “Strange Fruit” by Billie Holliday is a clear example of a song that displayed an explicit political message for the first time amongst an entertainment crowd. The chilling imagery that addressed the common practice of lynching is the main focus of Holiday’s song. “Southern trees bear a strange fruit; blood on the leaves and blood at the root”. What starts off sounding like a potential love song, immediately goes awry as the mention of blood comes into play.

The visuals of dead bodies swaying side to side paints the harsh reality of black people living in the south in the United

States.

Today, it is common to see many celebrities and musicians use their musical platform to exercise their freedom of speech by speaking out against policies, political leaders and events that threaten the overall development and benefit of the greater public. As a matter of fact, it is now seen as the norm to be vocal in some form of social justice issue in today’s society. A current example of this is through Colin Kaepernick’s unique way of protesting police brutality by kneeling during the national anthem or popular country group The Dixie Chicks opposition to the invasion of Iraq by the U.S in 2003, by utilizing their first amendment right of free speech. Regardless of what method is used, many individuals that are in positions of power or influence have made it a common goal to speak, sing, scream, and/or act out on anything that deserves to be brought some attention.

Although active participation through song and lyrics is quite common within today’s music, Billie Holiday definitely pushed the boundaries when she decided to perform Strange Fruit because she indirectly protested against racism in America during its peak in the south. Truth be told, the song is a very ugly and twisted song which uncomfortably “tears at the guts of what white people have done to black people in the United States” truthfully and powerfully spoken by Nina Simone; another prominent black musical artist who gave her own rendition of the song, which is equally as raw.

My initial feelings before Billie began singing the lyrics was how beautiful each instrument was in the overall creation of the song. The introduction to the song seemed light and almost fairytale like without the listener catching on the songs true underlying themes. How could something sung so beautifully create such feelings of distaste, horror, and sadness?

Nevertheless, the song gives a realistic picture of life 50 years ago and the struggle black people faced. It wasn’t common for musical artists to use their craft and speak on injustice however when they did, passionate feelings were ignited through the lives of whom were victims of it. Let Billie Holiday show you that regardless of who you are and what you look like, your craft can be your message.

Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

home & garden

PAGE 37

Wabi-sabi: embracing the perfectly imperfect home Wabi-sabi is the ancient Japanese philosophy of finding beauty and serenity in the imperfect. If you want to incorporate this ancient philosophy into the style and design of your home, here are a few ways to start.

• Use handmade items: wabi-sabi is about authenticity, so favour decorations and furniture that aren’t mass-produced. Hang a painting made by a family member instead of a print, and shop at local boutiques and flea markets instead of big box stores.

• Get rid of clutter: it’s hard to find the peace of mind wabi-sabi offers when you’re

Terrazzo making a comeback Even if you’ve never heard the word, you’ve probably seen terrazzo before.

A popular flooring material in the 70s, this composite material is usually made from scraps of marble, glass and granite that are set into resin.

No longer relegated to hospital and school floors, terrazzo is making its way into modern homes. Because it’s manmade, this versatile material can be found in almost any colour, and depending on the size of the chips of stone, can be as subtle or audacious as you want.

surrounded by clutter. Getting rid of things that you don’t use and organizing the things you need will bring tranquility into your home.

• Bring the outdoors inside: organic materials like wood and natural stone are a big part of the wabi-sabi philosophy. Using these materials and filling your home with live plants will bring positive energy into your home.

Wabi-sabi is about finding beauty in imperfection. Don’t be afraid to bring something into your home that makes you happy, even if it doesn’t match the rest of your decor.

Maximalism: the design trend that’s replacing minimalism

For the last decade or so, minimalism has been all the rage among interior designers. An esthetic that embraces simplicity, minimalism favours basic geometric patterns, muted colours and unembellished furniture and accessories.

your personality.

Recently, however, there’s been a new trend exploding in the interior design world — maximalism. A reaction against the lessis-more mentality of minimalism, maximalism embraces bold colours, luxurious fabrics, detailed patterns and a melange of accessories and styles. The maximalist approach encourages you to design interiors that display your creativity and reflect

• Make a plan. Although maximalist interiors may look artlessly eclectic, they have to be carefully planned to avoid looking kitschy and overstuffed. Even when experimenting with clashing patterns and designs, you should organize the room symmetrically and have an overarching colour scheme.

If you want to integrate terrazzo into your home, consider using it as a countertop in lieu of granite, or for a shower wall instead of the standard ceramic tiles. If you’re tentative to fully embrace the trend but still want to try it out, terrazzo prints are popping up on all sorts of decorations and furniture, from lamps and coasters to coffee tables and barstools.

If you’re looking for an interesting way to update your home, terrazzo may be the ticket.

If you’re tired of sparse, minimalist interiors, here are a few tips on how to achieve the maximalist look:

• Be true to yourself. While minimalist interiors can sometimes feel impersonal, maximalist interiors showcase your personality through unique combinations of styles and decorations.

Choose colours, patterns and accessories that reveal something about you and your interests.

• Try it in small doses. Start with a few decorative touches, like adding a mix of brightly coloured throw pillows on the couch, putting up patterned wallpaper or investing in a few statement pieces of furniture or decor.

This winter, embrace the maximalist trend. Brighten up your home by integrating vibrant colours, loud patterns, gilded decorations and richly textured fabrics into your living space.

Four reasons to add skylights to your home Skylights are ideal for lighting rooms naturally, especially if your home doesn’t get a lot of direct sunlight. Here are four reasons to consider installing skylights: 1. Natural light. Skylights allow more light to reach your home’s interior, even in places that aren’t located near windows.

This boosts your overall quality of life since exposure to natural light has been shown to improve your mood and productivity.

2. Energy efficiency. Because they let in so much light, skylights keep you from having to turn on the lights as often, which reduces your electricity bills. Plus, vented skylights can be opened to allow air to circulate, which can help with cooling your home during the summer. And if you invest in Energy Star certified skylights, you may be eligible for a tax credit.

3. Increased home value. Skylights also offer a good return on investment. They increase your home’s market value by adding esthetic flair to the exterior, brightening up the interior and improving your home’s energy efficiency.

4. Extended space. Skylights make spaces feel more open and spacious. They’re a great choice for rooms like bathrooms, which can feel cramped without windows. Plus, skylights won’t compromise your privacy the way regular windows do.

Keep in mind that’s it’s important to work with a professional when having skylights installed so you don’t end up losing heat or having moisture leak in through the ceiling.

A roofing professional will be able to recommend the best skylight products for your needs.

PAGE 38

automotive

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

A brief guide to selling your car quickly

Mazda’s future is looking greener

Generally, spring is a good time to sell a car. As winter winds down, highways, byways and country lanes beckon. The result? A spike in car sales! But this doesn’t mean that propping up a “for sale” sign in your window will suffice. To the contrary, you can count on facing a fair bit of competition, making it essential that you present your car in the best possible light. If you wish to lay the groundwork for a speedy sale, you’ll definitely need to give your vehicle a bit of TLC. A CLEAN AND FRESH INTERIOR Dirt, stains, odours and general untidiness detract considerable value from your car and can put off potential buyers. Even an hour or two of cleaning goes a long way. Tidying the interior involves vacuuming, washing the windows and dusting and wiping all the surfaces. It’s also recommended that you apply cleaning pro­ducts to the carpets, followed by an odour eliminator. A fresh smelling car will sell quicker.

Like many other automakers, Mazda is making the move towards producing greener vehicles.

However, being a smaller company, it can’t do it alone and has enlisted the help of Toyota. Recently, the two companies made a deal that will give Mazda access to Toyota’s vehicle electrification expertise. What’s more, in November 2018, the two automakers invested $1.6 billion to begin building a massive car plant (it measures 3.3 million square feet) in Huntsville, Alabama.

The first order of business for the jointly owned car plant, which is scheduled to open in 2021 and will employ 4,000 people, is to make a redesigned Toyota Corolla. It will also produce a crossover Mazda, the details around which remain a mystery. The project is a 50-50 partnership, with the two companies contributing equally to the operation.

In more recent news, this year saw the arrival of a

new generation of Mazda3s. Offering a luxurious ride that its predecessors lacked, the 2019 Mazda3 has the latest SKYACTIV chassis, which gives the car a more robust structure. Under the hood, the carmaker made the fantastic choice of opting for the latest generation SKYACTIV-G 2.0 with a 2.5 litre 4-cylinder engine, which is the cream of the crop when it comes to basic gasoline engines.

Alternatively, drivers can choose to purchase their 2019 Mazda3 with a SKYACTIV-X engine.

This small 2-litre engine with a high compression ratio delivers 176 horsepower and is assisted by the new M Hybrid system, which optimizes fuel efficiency. The standard models feature either a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission.

You can also opt for the 4-wheel drive model, a first for the Mazda3. The Mazda3 with the SKYACTIV-X engine should be available near the end of the year as a 2020 model.

In addition, consider using a scented disinfecting product on the seats. For leather seats, a leather-cleaner is recommended. And be sure to wash those normally out-of-sight areas: clean the trunk as well as the engine. However, you should only clean the engine yourself if you have the know-how and the proper products. Otherwise, entrust engine cleaning to a professional.

A SHINY EXTERIOR Needless to say, the exterior should sparkle and a top-grade car wash is the first priority. Also, consider applying wax — spring happens to be the perfect time to do so and spray-on waxes can do the job in about 15 minutes.

Once the inside and outside are spick and span, perform a detailed inspection of your car, putting yourself in the buyer’s shoes. See if there are scratches that can be touched up or rust that might be worth getting removed. However, you shouldn’t go so far as to get your car repainted. Given the price of paint jobs, you’re unlikely to get a good return on your investment.

GOOD PICTURES After thoroughly cleaning your car, it’ll be photo-ready. It’s worth pointing out that taking quality pictures is essential to speedily selling your car, especially if you’re going to have an online ad. It’s best to post clear photos taken from a variety of angles and to also include shots of the interior.

The 2019 Mazda3 Sedan

DOCUMENTS FOR THE BUYER If your car is in good shape, ask your mechanic for a signed inspection report. This will serve as solid reassurance for potential buyers. Moreover, hold on to your receipts to show that you’ve properly maintained your car and made essential repairs.

By taking these steps prior to putting your car on the market, you’re sure to increase your chances of making a speedy and satis­factory sale.

The 2019 Mazda3 Sport

fun

Wednesday, March 6, 2019 | www.torontocaribbean.com | Toronto Caribbean

PAGE 39

WEEK OF MARCH 3 TO MARCH 9 2019

ARIES

The luckiest signs this week: TAURUS, GEMINI AND CANCER

After a period of intense stress, it’s important to step back and relax.

Take some time to reju­venate and make a fresh start.

TAURUS

You’ll work overtime this week. Luckily, you’ll also have some time off to have fun with your loved ones, who’ll invite you to join their activities.

PUZZLE NO. 677 ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 677

GEMINI

HOW TO PLAY :

Whether it’s a big vacation or a short romantic getaway, you’ll have your head in the clouds planning your next trip. You’ll even consider going abroad for an adventure.

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once.

CANCER

Some changes are necessary and with good reason. Cleaning up your circle of friends will re­lieve some stress and allow you to be happier in your life.

Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. You already have a few numbers to get you started. Remember: You must not repeat the numbers 1 through 9 in the same line, column, or 3x3 box.

LEO

This week could bring about some strong emotions. Don’t put yourself in the position of making all the decisions be­ cause it may lead to criticism from others.

VIRGO

PUZZLE NO. 940 47. Sweet spud 48. Entrance rugs 52. Optimistic 55. Rude look 56. Chinese skillet 57. Bona fide 58. Auction cry 59. Luau garland 60. Coop dwellers

DOWN

ACROSS

1. Flows back 5. Matterhorn, e.g.

8. Crack 12. Give temporarily 13. Tit ____ tat 14. Parasitic insects 15. Train fee

16. Couples 18. Gain 20. On a ship’s left side 21. Frightening 23. Went by bus 25. Part of a circle 26. Glance quickly 28. Classroom furnishing

32. Young woman 33. Of the past 35. Mover’s vehicle 36. Adam’s son 38. Mimicking bird 39. Tiger’s-____ 40. “____ on Down the Road” 42. Metric composition 44. Modify

1. Pixie 2. ____ constrictor (snake) 3. Clinging crustacean 4. Show scorn 5. Toward the rear, nautically 6. First gear 7. Con’s counterpart 8. Slanted 9. Celebrity’s transport 10. Cake froster 11. Experiment 17. Pathetic 19. Mistake in print 21. History 22. Grouchy one 23. Tint again

24. Shop sign 27. Shade sources 29. Always 30. Answers 31. Leg joint 34. Nation’s sea power 37. Smirked 41. Supply weapons to 43. Globe 44. Fusses 45. Advertising

emblem 46. Highway charge 49. Leatherworking tool 50. Finger’s opposite 51. Go down the hill 53. Solar body 54. Positive word

ANSWER TO PUZZLE NO. 940

You’ll have to elbow your way in to get where you want to be so don’t be afraid to speak up if you need to. You’ll be offered the chance to travel and dis­cover new cultures.

LIBRA

You’ll be a key figure among your colleagues and circle of friends.

All these people can of­fer a helping hand when you’re ready to make some changes.

SCORPIO

If you invite loved ones into your home, don’t expect them to offer help. They may even want to be waited on. Luckily, you have lots of fun doing it.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ll come across people who are all talk, no action. Don’t be fooled by those who don’t know what they’re talking about. Fol­low your instincts; they won’t lead you astray.

CAPRICORN

You probably appreciate the stability and financial indepen­dence that your job brings you. Your salary gives you the op­portunity to travel and go on adventures.

AQUARIUS

You’ll be full of ideas and initia­tives. It’s possible that your habit of changing plans depending on your mood could irritate the people around you.

PISCES

There could be some confu­sion at the beginning of the week.

Luckily, all it takes is a second cup of coffee to regain your focus and make small mi­racles happen.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS USE AMERICAN SPELLING

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JAMAICA: 15 Acres of land property with large 3 bedroom house located on two main roads in Clarendon, Jamaica for sale. Going at extremely reasonable price. Please call 905-849-1091 for further information

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Available for months or longer. Suits retirees or return residents. $300.00 USA/month. Serious inquires blessingsdevine@gmail.com.

DEATH: We sadly announce the passing of Mohammad Hassan Khan. Beloved writer, father, brother, husband and Angel.

Always loved by Laila (wife), Sheron(daughter), Gibron(son) grandchildren and brothers Iqbal and Hussein

FORWANTED SALE HELP

TRINIDAD: Fully furnished townhouse for sale Gated community next to Gasparillo Police Station in Trinidad Contact Miranda Mohammed Roopchanbleuskiinvestments@gmail.com1-868-489-1376

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GTA locations. Text or Call 647-239-4808

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ASSEMBLER: Coey Stairs is looking for a jr stair assembler. We will train you; you will be making treads, cleaning, installing and learning at the same time. Email debbie@coey.ca call 905.494.1099

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PERSONALS COMPANIONSHIP: Female looking for male 56-57 for a serious friendship, relationship or companionship. Call Hope 647-780-7265

SUNDAY SERVICE: Fountain of Truth Ministries Pastor: Reverend Maxine Campbell Worship Address: 2170 Kipling Avenue, Etobicoke Percy Johnson School – Cafeteria Sundays: 10.am – 2. pm Teaching, Worship, Ministering For info call: 416 748 0211

PEN FRIEND: 46 year old male looking for Caribbean living in Toronto as a Pen Friend. Women of any age interested in music, meeting friends, exchanging ideas and gifts email ebenezereshun64@gmail. com

MISSISSAUGA: Mississauga Missionary Baptist Church invites you to join us at 1620 Dundas St West, each Sunday at 10am for praise, worship and in-depth Bible teaching with Pastor Sean, 416-219-9137

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real estate

PAGE 42

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

2019 – Drive to survive JAY BRIJPAUL brijpaul@carib101.com

REAL ESTATE PRO A recent survey revealed that one-third of home buyers prefer to move out of the city to smaller towns where home prices are affordable. The distance is a measure of affordability and buyers are spending at least an hour to commute.

Josephine is one of those commuters who works at City Hall in Toronto. She bought a fourbedroom, detached home for $520,000 in Shelbourne. It takes her an hour and twenty minutes to commute. Homes in the 416 area with similar features are worth about 1.1 million and in the suburbs around $800,000.

A+

Adding mortgage expense, property tax and commuting cost, it works out the same as if Josephine had bought in the GTA, but she cannot qualify for a higher mortgage. There is a trade-off in her case. Her elderly parents live with her and assist with the children. Her spouse found a job locally and assists with the household chores.

Many families are caught in the same predicament; moving to smaller towns where home prices are affordable. Commuting time in some cases is about fifteen hours per week.

Factor one’s hourly rate and that’s an additional loss. For many, the trade-off is that they can enjoy a larger home with much more amenities at a cheaper price. Josephine really doesn’t mind because it gives her a break from the busy city.

The roads are less congested, and the town moves at a much slower pace.

Commuting is not only exhausting, it is expensive. Josephine carpooled with four others and drove only one day each week. Small town living is becoming more popular, especially among those who are self-employed, re-

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tired or work from home. A client sold his condo in Toronto for $375,000. He bought a home in Thunder Bay for $125,000 and another one in Arizona for $75,000. He spends his winters in Arizona and summers in Thunder Bay. He is employed as an underwriter and works from home.

All he needs is internet access. The small towns are good for retirement as well. Many sell their homes in GTA and move to smaller towns where the pace is slower, and the home prices are affordable.

I recently relocated a family from London to Rexdale. One spouse is a truck driver and the other works from home. Their jobs gave them the flexibility to live out of town. However, two of the children graduated from high school and are now attending UofT. Commuting is out of the question and it is expensive for the family to pay for accommodation. They settled for a much smaller home in Rexdale but the children can commute to university.

The qualifying process for home ownership is based on a formula where 32% of the gross income can be used for mortgage and

property tax every year and 42% to carry all debts. With the stress test, where the qualifying rate is 2% above the current rate, buyers are qualifying for less mortgage. If the government removes the stress test qualifier, buyers can qualify for more. Another option is to increase the amortization, the number of years it takes to pay off the mortgage, from 25 years to 50 years. This would drastically reduce the monthly payments but with lower mortgage payments, more buyers can afford, demand will increase, pushing the prices even higher. It is a delicate balance.

Affordability is the key when comes to homeownership and buyers are trading the cost to commute for affordability. If you are planning on buying in a small town, then do your research. It should be a family decision taking everything into consideration. Home ownership is becoming more elusive for many and the only way out is to drive to survive the high cost in the city.

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PAGE 44

finance

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Retirement planning using RRSP and TFSA FAZAAD BACCHUS fazaad@carib101.com

FINANCE SPECIALIST

Over the month of February, there was a buzz and frenzy as clients rushed to get in their RRSP contributions to minimize or reduce their 2018 tax payable. That deadline was on March 1st as it is every single year but some have missed it. Any contributions you make from now on will go towards your 2019 tax year. For those who contributed, I hope that you have put the money in well-chosen funds so that your money could grow in a safe manner.

Of course, I am sure you know that you can save in your RRSP by paying an amount every month, where you don’t have to worry about a lump sum come February next year, it’s only if you want to top up then

you may need to do so. But here is something I would like you to consider, is there such a thing as saving too much in your RRSP? This is a question not often asked, but it’s one to consider, as it is possible that a person could be saving too much in RRSP.

Take for example an individual who has amassed a significant of money in RRSP already. If that person continues to save even more, then by the time they become age 71 and have to transfer the RRSP into an RRIF the income from the RRIF is likely to be very high.

Let’s couple that with any CPP and pension benefits they may be receiving and suddenly we might be looking at a clawback of OAS benefits. Of course, any GIS benefits would have already been taken back. All of this is happening because there is just too much money in the RRSP account.

This brings us now to whether we should be saving still for RRSP during the year or should we focus on the TFSA. As I have written before many times over, the TFSA (tax-free savings account) does not reduce your income tax but allows your money to grow tax-free. It is the only instrument in Canada where money can grow, and you don’t

have to pay tax on the growth. It first started in 2009 with $5,000 dollars as a maximum contribution and has changed over the years to where it is now $6,000 for 2019. The total room you have, providing you were age 18 in 2009 is $63,500.

This is an immense opportunity if you have maxed out your RRSP or feel that you have saved sufficiently in it. A TFSA can be invested in identical portfolios as would an RRSP so the returns on your investment need not be different also. Upon retirement, income from your TFSA does not reduce your government benefits so that your OAS and even your GIS might remain intact.

However, to know how much you should invest in your RRSP or in the TFSA, it requires that you sit down and do some retirement planning. There are really two phases that you should be planning; one is the accumulation phase and the other being the de-accumulation phase. It is important to sit and ask your advisor to prepare a retirement forecast so that you can make sure you don’t lose out on your benefits.

Plan for health-care expenses government won’t cover:

ANDREW STEWART andrew@carib101.com

FAMILY ADVISOR

I would describe myself as an optimist. I think this personality trait can serve people well in many areas of their life. But be careful not to be too optimistic when it comes to your retirement. A certain amount of pessimism is prudent to ensure that you have sufficient resources in your old age, especially given the risk of health problems later in life. The best time to start discussing potential medical costs in retirement is when you are in your 40s or 50s. Rising health-care costs can put a huge dent in the savings of your retirement.

Although Canada’s publicly funded (and provincially administered) universal health-care system, covers most medical expenses, some services such as dental care and physiotherapy, must be covered by private insurance.

My parents are both in relatively good health and they are in their 80’s. While I like to think that I will have the same good health gene and be able to live in my own home for the rest of life, there is a chance that I will need additional care. There are essentially three ways to pay the costs that the

• • •

Rely on your family for help Save a large enough nest egg so you can pay for it yourself Or purchase health and long-term care insurance

Most people head into retirement without much thought about health-care costs that could derail their planned lifestyle. We tend to sideline thinking about medical expenses during retirement for two main reasons. First, we assume that medicare will take care of all their health-care needs. Thus, we simply may become accustomed to not having to pay for visits to doctors or hospitals. Second, while we are still employed, group insurance plans typically cover all or much of the health-care services not covered by public provincial plans. In Ontario, residents who are over age 65 qualify for the Ontario Drug Benefit Program, which covers most of the costs of prescription drugs, but may be subject to deductibles.

Assisted-living care, medical and pharmaceutical expenses during retirement are the top three concerns that most people face in retirement. So. should you buy protection like long-term care insurance?

Long-term care insurance is much less common here in Canada than in the US and it can be expensive. Long-term care insurance protects a person’s financial resources if something happens to their health in re-

tirement. The policy would cover things like in-home care to help you dress and eat, or help provide care in a facility, such as a nursing home. The way I like to describe it to my clients as dignity insurance. If you don’t wish for your children or spouse to have help with the task of daily living, then you may want to consider this type of coverage.

Deciding whether or not to pay for the protection that comes with long-term care insurance isn’t easy either. Factors like how much are you saving now, and can you continue to save for retirement as well as pay the insurance premiums? Will you have family members nearby who could take some responsibility for you, or will you be relying on others if you need additional support. I came across an article that mentioned The Council on Aging, an Ottawa-based non-profit who published a Guide to Long-Term Care that can help pre-retirees decide whether insurance is a good idea for them. One of the issues with LTC insurance is that the premiums can increase at any time, by any amount. So how much does long-term care really cost?

Having more hands-on care and medical attention staying at a long-term care facility, a place that offers seniors 24-hour nursing and personal care is not free. An estimated cost in Ontario with the average length of stay being 18 months will be $31,947 for standard care, $38,517 for semi-private and $45,634 for private. These are lump sum figures but could be paid monthly as well.

PAGE 46

sports

Toronto Caribbean | www.torontocaribbean.com | Wednesday, March 6, 2019

England collapses in St Lucia KAYLA KARIM

kayla@carib101.com

TC REPORTER

In the series finale in St Lucia, England recorded a low one-day total of 113 against West Indies in a one-sided game. The last time that England had scored remotely as low as they did in this match was back in 1986 for a low of 114.

West Indies 22-year-old Oshane Thomas saw his first ever five-

wicket haul in professional cricket forcing England to lose their final five wickets for just two runs in the space of 20 balls. West Indies achieved their target before the scheduled innings break and Chris Gayla broke the back of the chase with 77 from 27 balls before being bowled by Mark Wood. Chris Gayle managed to smash nine sixes and five fours on pace to pass AB De Villiers’ 31ball record for the fastest ODI hundred.

Gayle’s run left West Indies needing just 21 to secure a victory to even the series 2-2.

England’s Chris Woakes picked up the further wicket of Shai Hope but the host team eliminated the required runs in just 12.1 overs, ending England’s run of nine series wins. With this loss, many are skeptical of the team’s

success going into the first ever 50 over World Cup in the summer.

Many tend to forget that England’s high rise yet high reward batting style does not make their team invincible, despite the progress that has been made since the last World Cup four years ago. Keeping in mind that only last summer against South Africa, the team was bowled out for 153 after collapsing to 20 for 6 at one stage.

Since the last World Cup, England has won four other contests in which a series was on the line going into the final match, where the team had been chasing on each occasion.

Jason Holder to become West Indies’ captain

The next series between West Indies and England will see a new face

as captain. Jason Holder will add the title of being captain for the T20I series.

Carlos Brathwaite is currently the regular West Indies T20 captain and selectors want to see the ODI squad spend more time together ahead of the World Cup this summer. They feel as the time will help them to fine tune various strategies in situations such as who bowls in Powerplays and at the death.

West Indies will head to Ireland in May for a tri-series however there is doubt surrounding how beneficial it will prove for their World Cup preparations as there are up to eight members of the ODI squad that could be unavailable due to a scheduling clash. With this being the case, the tournament may see opportunities given to younger players.

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